Weather in a Bottle
25 minutes
Science Experiment
Create mini weather systems in bottles to observe clouds and water drops (teacher-led demonstration).
Learning Objectives
- Observe how clouds form in a controlled environment
- Understand the water cycle in simple terms
- Practice scientific observation and description
- Develop curiosity about weather science
Activity Instructions
- 1Show students the clear bottle and explain we'll make weather inside
- 2Add warm water to the bottle (about 1/3 full)
- 3Add a few drops of food coloring if desired for visibility
- 4Place ice cubes on top of the bottle lid
- 5Observe as water vapor rises and condenses on the cold lid
- 6Discuss what students see happening in the bottle
- 7Explain that this is like how clouds form in the sky
- 8Let students take turns observing the bottle up close
- 9Clean up materials and discuss what we learned about weather
Assessment Criteria
- Students can describe what they observe in the bottle
- Students make connections between bottle weather and real weather
- Students ask questions about the weather experiment
- Students show curiosity about weather science
Materials Needed
- Clear plastic bottles with lids
- Warm water
- Ice cubes
- Food coloring (optional)
- Whipped cream or shaving cream
- Small funnels
- Paper towels for cleanup
Preparation Steps
- Test the experiment beforehand to ensure it works properly
- Prepare clear bottles with secure lids
- Have warm water ready at appropriate temperature
- Set up demonstration area with good visibility
Teaching Tips
- Keep the experiment simple and focused on observation
- Use clear language to explain what's happening
- Allow plenty of time for students to observe and ask questions
- Connect the experiment to students' weather experiences
Extension Activities
- Try different temperatures to see how they affect cloud formation
- Create multiple bottles to compare different conditions
- Draw pictures of what students observe in the bottles
- Connect to real weather observations outside