I really love this simple Skittles Rainbow Experiment. The setup takes minutes and you only need a couple of items you likely already have in your classroom. Kids get so excited about it too!
Plus, click the button below to receive our Skittles Rainbow Experiment worksheet to pair with your lesson.
The science behind the Skittles Rainbow Experiment
Skittles are made and coated with sugar. When you add warm water, the coloring and the coat dissolve quickly. The food coloring and sugar spread through the water, making the plate rainbow-like. This experiment is super fun to do in a classroom or as an extension activity students can try at home with their families.
Is there a Skittles Rainbow Experiment video?
Check out this video and follow the steps below to try this experiment with your students.
Materials needed for the experiment:
- Skittles
- Warm or room-temperature water
- A plate or shallow bowl
Steps to create the Skittles Rainbow Experiment
1. First, set out all supplies. Hint: If you are doing this in a whole-group setting, you may want to set up several plates because students will want to be able to see the results!
2. Next, let the students help you line the rim of the plate with the Skittles. In my classroom, we usually place them in some sort of pattern.
3. Then allow time for students to predict what they think will happen.
4. After that, pour the water in the middle of the bowl. Add just enough to go to the edge of the candy.
5. Finally, you will begin to see the results after about 30 seconds. Sometimes I let kids swirl the colors later with their finger or a toothpick. They love this!
Get your free Skittles experiment printable worksheet!
Feeling inspired to give this experiment a go? Grab our Skittles Rainbow Experiment worksheet bundle to pair with your lesson. The bundle includes space to predict, record observations, and analyze the results. Click the button below to receive your copy!
