Soap stars

Which is the best brand of soap?

Remember that water can get very hot!

If you get soap in your eyes, wash it out with plenty of cold water.

PLAN

Obtain several brands of soap.

Wash with them.

See which is best.

How will you judge which is "best"?

I WILL NEED

Several brands of soap.

A supply of hot water.

I MAY NEED

Stuff to make hands dirty (e.g.: soil, ink, felt-tip pens, paint, glue.)

FAIR TEST

How will you ensure that this is a "fair test"?

PREDICTION

Is more expensive soap better at cleaning?

PRACTICAL ACTIVITY

Give a clear step-by-step explanation of what you did and why.

What did you notice?

COLLECT

DATA

What data will you collect?

How will you judge levels of clean-ness?

Is there anything you could time?

ANALYSE

DATA

Much of your analysis will be based on observation.

You could make comparisons between the different brands - and give reasons for your judgement.

PRESENT

FINDINGS

Is it possible to video part of the investigation?

Could you take some photographs?

What is the most interesting way to present your conclusions?

EVALUATE

INVESTIGATION

What was the most difficult part of the investigation?

Is there anything you could have done to make this part easier?

If you have carried out this investigation, click the icon to send in your results to Brainboxx and we may publish your work on the website.  It is best to e-mail the results of your investigation or you may need to send them by post.  Make sure you get permission from a teacher, parent or other adult before you get in touch.

History of soap

Making soap

Traditional soap-making