In Nancy Larson® Science 2, children learn to describe objects by their physical characteristics.
One characteristic is whether the object is transparent, translucent, or opaque.
This project incorporates these descriptions of a jar. The children watch their jars change characteristics
several times. The final versions make colorful votives that children can give as gifts.
I like to have the children work on their jars while I’m reading to them after lunch.
Start with a transparent jar. You’ll need white glue
Here I’m re-using a jelly jar. like Elmer’s School Glue.
Spread a coating of glue over The white glue covers the
the sides of the jar. jar and becomes opaque.
As the glue dries, you can see The glue is completely dry
the jar change from opaque and the jar is translucent.
to translucent.
Use regular markers to color Since my jar was embossed with
the jar. I’ve found inexpensive fruit, I followed these shapes.
markers work best.
For more intense colors, use the Handle the jar so that fingers
markers to add several layers don’t touch the outside colored
of color. Let the jar dry glass. The marker colors will
between layers. come off easily on fingers.
You can create blended colors When you’re done adding color,
by layering shades. Be sure to let the jar dry, then spray with
start with the lightest shade and clear acrylic. I apply two coats.
work toward the darker ones. This keeps the colors in place
For the peach, I started with and makes the jar hand-
yellow, then pink, and lastly orange. washable.
Your jar is now almost transparent Use a battery-powered tea light,
and very colorful. and it’s a glowing votive.
I’ve used candles for older children.
The flameless tea lights aren’t as
bright, but they are so safe to handle.
