The Boiling Point

In The Boiling Point two characters, a scientist and a mime assistant, lead an interactive investigation of the investigation question, “What happens to water molecules when the water boils?” The characters introduce models of atoms and molecules, offer possible answers (hypotheses) to the question, ask the children “vote their hypothesis” by marking paper ballots, and perform several demonstrations designed to give the audience the information needed to answer the question.  Children are invited to participate in an “Act-It-Out” by donning cardboard “H’s” and “O’s” to perform the “Dance of the Water Molecules,” a kinesthetic model of molecular nature of vaporization. The children are asked to “vote their hypothesis” for a second time before the climax where the answer to the Investigation Question is revealed.  Children participate in the show at every stage of the investigative process by making observations, doing hand motions that represent steps of the scientific method, answering questions, and playing the role of water molecules.  Assessment of cognitive impact of the show is embedded in the structure of the show.

Run time: 35 minutes.