What Melts? A Fun Summer Science Experiment for Kids

A hot summer day is the perfect time for kids to explore and learn through hands-on activities. One exciting way to combine fun and education is by conducting a simple yet intriguing science experiment: What Melts?

What Melts? Summer Science Experiment

This experiment helps kids understand the concept of melting and encourages them to make predictions, observe changes, and draw conclusions.

💡View our favorite Summer Science Experiments [here].

Materials Needed:

Ice cubes
Butter
Chocolate
Marshmallow
Wax (such as a birthday candle or tea light)
Lip Balm/Lip Stick
Crayon
Cheese
Gummy Candies
Small Plastic Toy (for contrast)
A sunny spot outdoors
Muffin Tin
Timer or clock

Step-by-Step Instructions

Set Up the Experiment Area:
- Find a sunny spot outdoors where you can safely place your items without disturbing them.
- Place each of the chosen items (in different muffin tin sections (or use small plates).
Make Predictions:
- Before starting the experiment, ask the kids to predict which items will melt first, second, third, and so on. Have them explain their reasoning based on their prior knowledge or guesses.
Start the Experiment:
- Once everything is set up, place the plates with the items in the sunny spot.
- Start the timer or note the time when you place the items in the sun.
Observe and Record: Grab the free journal pages below.
- Observe the items every 5-10 minutes and note any changes. Record the time it takes for each item to start melting and to melt (if applicable) completely.
- Encourage the kids to draw what they see or take photos for later comparison.
Discuss the Results:
- After the experiment is complete, gather the kids and discuss the results. Compare the actual outcomes with their predictions.
- Ask questions: Which item melted first? Which took the longest? Why do you think some items melted faster than others?

The Science Behind Melting

When you add heat from the sun to a solid, like an ice cube, the heat makes the tiny particles (molecules) inside the solid move faster and faster. Normally, in a solid, these molecules are packed tightly together and only vibrate a little bit. But as you keep adding heat, these vibrations get stronger.

Eventually, the molecules vibrate so much that they can no longer stay in their fixed positions. They start to break free from their spots and move around more freely. This is when the solid starts to change into a liquid. For example, the ice cube starts to turn into water. This phase change from solid to liquid is called melting.

You might have noticed that different substances have different melting points. For example; they need more heat added to change from solid to liquid. Kids can learn about different materials’ melting points and properties by observing various items.

💡Learn more about the States of Matter and Phase Changes in science!

Additional Activities:

Free Printable Science Worksheets

Add these free What Melts Science Journal Pages to your summer science experiment and start a science notebook!

More Summer Science Experiments

Printable Summer STEAM Projects Pack

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

15 Summer science activities with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process steps, and science information. Easy to set up, do, and fit into your available time, even if it’s limited!
10+ Printable summer STEM challenges that are simple but engaging for home or classroom. Perfect for K-2 and beyond and adaptable to many skill levels and developmental needs. Will the boat float and more?
Also included a summer theme STEM Story with challenges perfect for going on a STEM adventure inside or outside!
Brick building challenges with a summer theme keep your brick building fresh for the season.
Even more engaging summer-theme activities include printable sensory play recipes, homemade pinwheels, and spinners!
Bonus pull-out Packs include Summer Fun, Ice is Nice, Lemon Theme Projects, and Ice Cream—extra fun activities to keep you busy all season long!