WHAT'S YEAST ANYWAY?
SEE IT,
WATCH IT,
WOW!
There's nothing quite like an impressive science experiment to really drive home the learning topic. While in our Yeast Mini Unit lesson, we discovered so much great science surrounding these tiny microbes. From the properties of yeast, to where it grows, and how it's used, we were expanding our minds in this lesson!
When most of us think of yeast, the first thing we often think of are delicious breads. So, while studying yeast, bread was certainly included to aid in understanding the function of yeast. But what if there was another way to show my kiddos just how impressive this microbe was- a way that would leave them with the "wow" factor.
The word yeast comes from the Old English root yes-, which means "bubble" or "foam". These words would perfectly predict the experiment that would not only achieve the "wow" factor, but give my kids the outstanding visual and understanding of yeast in action.
Prepare your lab, or like us, your kitchen, because this experiment will have your scientist learning and understanding the purpose of yeast.
Get the Yeast Mini Unit Lesson
full of activities, games, worksheets, and more HERE!
Yeast In Action Experiment
WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
Yeast Packets
Dish Soap
Hydrogen Peroxide 3%
Food Coloring
Hot Water
Tray
Beaker or Container
Measuring Cup
Bowl
LET'S TRY IT!
Step 1: Prepare the workspace. Cover your workspace with a plastic bag. On the bag, set up the tray(s), beakers (or other container), and ingredients.
Step 2: To the beaker/container add 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide and 1/4 cup of dish soap.
Add food coloring of your choice, if desired.
Step 3: Once ready, pour in the yeast from the packet into the container of liquids.
*OUR NOTES*
As a note, in some instructions for this experiment, it may include the step of dissolving the yeast in a container of warm water before adding it to the mixture, the option is yours. In our experimenting, we discovered that the results were more effective with adding the undissolved yeast to the mixture. Either method will produce an interesting reaction, and we enjoyed testing this variable.
WHAT'S THE SCIENCE?
By completing this experiment, learners are testing a chemical reaction. The enzyme in the yeast works to speed up the process of breaking up the hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide breaks down to form oxygen and water. The bubble/foam that little scientists see is the oxygen.
Grab the FREE "Yeast In Action" Science Sheet HERE.
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