The Water Cycle in a Bag

Modelling the water cycle helps children understand the continuous movement of water in our environment and connects to river formation.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Rivers, Rocks & Rainbows
• Learning area: Science & Technology
• Level: Levels 1-3

Objectives

• Describe the stages of the water cycle: evaporation, condensation, precipitation
• Create a model of the water cycle using a sealed bag
• Make and record observations over time

Materials

• Ziplock bags
• Water with blue food colouring
• Permanent markers
• Tape for attaching bags to windows
• Observation journals
• Diagram of the water cycle

Instructions

Begin by asking: 'Where does rain come from? Where does it go?' Discuss children's ideas, then introduce the water cycle using a simple diagram. Children draw clouds, sun, and arrows on their ziplock bag, then add a small amount of blue-tinted water. Seal and tape bags to a sunny window. Over the following days, children observe and sketch what happens as water evaporates, condenses on the bag's surface, and 'rains' back down.

Educator tip

This experiment works best on a south-facing window with direct sunlight. Results are visible within a day or two.

Assessment

Evaluate understanding of the water cycle stages through children's explanations, journal entries, and accurate use of vocabulary.

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