Challenge 011 · Ages 6–12
Homemade Slime
Investigate polymers by making slime.
Recommended Guided Learning Time: 1 hour
Learners may require additional or fewer hours depending on age, prior experience, pace and the level of development they choose to take their project to.
Primary STEAM area
Science
The Challenge
What will your learner investigate?
Can you make slime and investigate how changing ingredients affects its properties?
Learning outcomes
- Recognise polymers as materials with distinctive properties.
- Follow a controlled method safely.
- Compare texture, stretch or viscosity and explain observed changes.
Connected learning
Science: materials, mixtures and polymers; Mathematics: measuring quantities; English: procedural writing; Art: colour and sensory design.
Dream Areas
Prepare for this Challenge
What you'll need
Here's what may be useful for completing this activity. Requirements may vary depending on the learner, activity format and equipment available.
Materials & consumables
- PVA glue
- age-appropriate, supplier-approved slime activator
- bicarbonate of soda if required by the chosen recipe
- food colouring (optional)
- gloves.
Equipment, tools & software
- Mixing bowls
- measuring spoons
- stirring sticks
- wipeable mats.
Safety & preparation
- Adult selects and measures the activator according to product instructions
- check skin sensitivities
- avoid contact with eyes and mouth
- wash hands
- do not taste.
These preparation notes support planning and do not replace a project-specific risk assessment or appropriate adult supervision.