Which materials make the best boat?

Building and testing boats is a fun preschool science activity for learning about the properties of materials and the effect of gradient on speed. We split the experiment into two parts. First, we tested different materials to see which worked best as a boat and then raced the boats down different inclines.

This activity is also part of my Playful Science series, so don’t forget to check out the rest!

Which materials make the best boat challenge

Materials

Paper

Optional pirate decorations

Corks

Elastic bands

Skewers

Black cardboard

Wooden lolly sticks

Washing up sponges

Plasticine

Glue

Anything else you want to try

How to make mini pirate boats

Construct small boats using different materials.

We made a lollystick raft, a simple boat with a washing-up sponge and a paper boat.

The paper boat worked well at first, but as it absorbed the water, it sank.

Our tub boat wasn’t stable enough and fell over. I think we needed a shorter sail.

The raft and washing-up sponge floated well, but both were too big for our half pipes, so we decided smaller washing-up sponge boats would be the best option. These were the perfect size for our pipes.

Another idea is to use corks. We fastened three together with an elastic band and added a sail.

Racing pirate boats

Next, we investigated whether the slope’s incline affected the speed of the boat. We used the sponge boats for this because they were the most stable.

What do you need to keep constant?

Type of boat? Do they weigh the same?

Amount and force of water – is it hard to keep the same?

Variable

Incline

We set up two different inclines with the same length of pipe and released the boats at the same time.

Other Ideas

Use a straw to blow the boats across a calm surface of water. Try blowing gently and then with more force. Then blow close to the boat and then further away.

Another idea is to use the straw to blow waves across the water.

Suitable for Early Learning Goal 16

Exploring and using media and materials

They safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques, experimenting with colour, design, texture, form and function.

Key Stage 1 

Everyday Materials

Uses of Everyday Materials

Working Scientifically

Last Updated on May 7, 2024 by Emma Vanstone