Density of Wood

Purpose: To develop observation skills
To draw conclusions about buoyancy and density
To improve measurement skills using scales
Season: All
Materials: Equal-sized pieces of a variety of woods, scale, pencil, paper, clipboard, data sheet.
TEKS: 1.2A,B,C,D,E    1.3A,B     1.4A,B
Procedure:
  1. Review the meaning of the term density.
  2. Weigh and number each piece of wood. Record this on the data sheet.
  3. Float the wood in the water and compare the results.
  4. Weigh and record data after floating each piece.
Questions:
  1. Which wood was lightest?
  2. Which wood floated highest in the water?
  3. Which wood was heaviest?
  4. Which wood floated the lowest?
  5. How do you think the weight affects floating?

Return to Resource Grid - Elementary

Number of Wood Sample Weight - Dry Weight - Wet