Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Begin the experiment by asking, ‘Have you ever seen lightning?’ If necessary, show the child a video or photo of a lightning strike in the sky. Explain that lightning is a bright flash in the sky caused by electricity. This experiment will demonstrate how lightning is created.
Step 2Ask the child if they know how lightning forms. Explain simply that lightning is a large spark of electricity in the sky that typically occurs during a storm.
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Gather the materials and set up a space to conduct the experiment. Place a plate with salt or pepper on the table.
Step 2Inflate the balloon and ask the child to rub the balloon back and forth as quickly as possible to create static electricity.
Step 3Ask the child to bring the charged balloon close to the pile of salt or pepper without touching it.
Step 4Observe how the grains move towards the balloon due to static attraction, mimicking the way lightning strikes the ground. Discuss with the child what they notice and ask them to describe how the grains move as the balloon approaches.
Step 5Explain that the movement of salt or pepper towards the balloon resembles how lightning strikes the ground, where electricity moves from the clouds to the Earth. Lightning occurs when electricity jumps between clouds or between a cloud and the ground. In clouds, tiny water droplets and ice rub against each other, creating static electricity, much like when we rub the balloon on the material.v
Showcase
Make
Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved sharing their insights and reflections.
Compile photos, drawings and notes from the activity into a scrapbook, highlighting what has been learned and enjoyed.
Use materials from the activity to build a model or prototype of something related to the topic, fostering hands-on learning and creativity.
Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.
Discuss
Choose an object or aspect of the activity to present to the rest of the family, explaining its significance and what the child has learned.
Choose a thought-provoking question or topic related to the activity and hold a family debate or discussion to explore different perspectives.
Sit down together to discuss the activity, allowing each family member to share their thoughts, discoveries and questions.
Have each family member prepare a short presentation about what they have learned, using visuals like drawings or props to illustrate key points.
Write
If the activity involved a visit to a museum or community centre, write thank-you notes to any instructors or organisers, reflecting on what has been learned.
Collaborate on writing a fictional story or play inspired by the themes or concepts explored during the activity.
Reflect on what has been learned during the activity and write letters to be opened at a later date, sharing thoughts, goals and aspirations.
If the activity involved outdoor exploration, begin a nature journal to document future outdoor adventures and observations.
Plan
Brainstorm some basic recipes that involve the use of cutting tools e.g. cookies, pastries or pizza. Decide on a suitable recipe you can make with the help of the child and discuss which cutting tools you will need to help you make it.
Take time to reflect on how the activity could inspire new goals, discussing ways to incorporate similar experiences into your routine in the future.
If the activity involved a specific topic or field of study, reach out to experts or professionals for interviews or Q&A sessions to deepen understanding.
Support the child to demonstrate this experiment to other family members, children or families in the community. Encourage the child to explain to the audience that this experiment represents electricity in a thunderstorm.