Apple Boat Science Activity

Last week’s apple unit has come to an end, but I have one fun activity that I simply must share! This apple boat science activity is a breeze to set up and so much fun. With just a few simple materials you can play and learn too!

What You Need:

• An  Apple
• Melon Baller
• Wooden Skewer or Chopstick
• Craft Foam

First cut the apple in half for your child. Using a melon baller, scoop out the seeds – older children can help with this step! Cut or break your wooden stick in half and poke it into the  apple. Next, cut a square of craft foam and poke two holes, one on bottom, one on top. Thread the stick through the holes in the craft foam and you are ready to sail!

The kids had a blast testing out the buoyancy of the apples as they bobbed up and down in the water.  They raced them back and forth blowing the sails as hard as they could. Of course they couldn’t resist taking a few chomps out of their juicy apples. They were surprised to find that the apple boats still floated despite having a chunk missing from the side. It was a good opportunity to talk about the density (in kid terms) of apples vs. the density of water. We love teachable moments!