Was Goldilocks telling the truth?

This is a lesson plan for students to design an experiment based on Goldilocks and the Three Bears.  The question is "Was Goldilocks telling the truth about the temperature of the porridge?"   It is lesson that could be used at the conclusion of a unit on heat transfer. The GLE addresses conducting an experiment and this lesson guides you through the process of aiding your class in designing their own experiments. The materials you need are listed along the side of the website and are readily available in most homes or schools.

Weblink address (URL): 
Was Goldilocks telling the truth?

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 
  • Try the experiment with substances other than porridge like soup or hot chocolate. Were the results the same?
  • Record class results in graphs and tables. Have the students determine the average drop in degrees or the range of temperatures for each bowl.
Interdisciplinary opportunities: 
  • Have students share their rewritten story of Goldilocks with a younger sibling.
     

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Goldilocks and the Three Bears
  • Was Goldilocks Telling the Truth? Experiment Planning Sheet
  • Multiple sets of bowls
  • Oatmeal
  • Hot water
  • Microwave
  • Crock pot
  • 1 cup and 1⁄2 cup measuring cups
  • Was Goldilocks Telling the Truth? Sample Table and Graph
  • Goldilocks Table
  • Goldilocks Graph
  • Science journals
  • Thermometers

References

Contributors: 
Jennifer Hassell
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation