Science Lesson Plan: Water Pressure Fountain

This science lesson plan is ideal for children in elementary grades who are beginning to learn about water and air pressure. It can be used as summer time fun, a homeschool lesson plan, or supplemental work. In this science lesson plan, you and your child will be building a water pressure fountain.

Materials for the Science Lesson Plan

To complete this water pressure fountain for the science lesson plan, you only need a few items. First, a two-liter empty soda bottle, or a one gallon plastic water or milk jug. Any large plastic bottle can be used. You will also need a sharp scissor or knife, a length of tape, and water.

Focus of the Science Lesson Plan

This science lesson plan teaches several things about water and air pressure. First, discuss the fact that the weight of the water forced it out of the holes in the bottle. Second, talk about the air pressure which presses down on the water. The water squirts out of the bottom hole harder than the top holes. Why? Your child should determine that the pressure exerted on the bottom of the water is greater than that on the top of the water.

This science lesson plan can lead to discussions about dams and overflow valves. Talk about hydro-electric power and how it is made with water pressure and turbines. It can also be a gateway for discussion about plumbing, building methods and materials, and other topics including pressure.

Science Lesson Plan Steps

Discussion is the first step in the science lesson plan. Let your children know the basics about water and air pressure. Help them understand that pressure works all the time naturally. After talking about what you are going to do, begin to build the water pressure fountain.

First, clean the plastic water bottle or jug thoroughly. Then, use the knife or a sharp scissor to punch three small holes in one side of it. The first hole should be about one inch above the bottom of the bottle. The next should be halfway up the side, and the third near the top. Cover all three of these holes with a long piece of tape. Be sure to fold over the end of the tape so that it can be removed easily in one piece.