Water runs downhill — Physical education, 4–6 years
Water moves across a surface towards a lower place when nothing holds it back. A small slope can show this clearly, even when the hill is hard to see.
Idea
When water is free to move, it usually travels from a higher place to a lower place. The ground may look almost flat, but a tiny slope is enough to guide a puddle or a stream. Water does not choose a direction; the shape and slope of the surface guide it.
Why
This idea solves a simple problem: how can we tell where rainwater or spilled water will go? People noticed that water collected in low places and made channels on slopes. That helped them plan drains, wells, gardens and paths instead of letting water spread anywhere.
Worked example
Noah pours one cup of water onto a tray. First, he holds the tray flat: the water spreads and stops in a shallow puddle. Next, he lifts one end: the water moves towards the lower end. He adds a block under that end, and the water runs along the tray into a cup.
Common trap
A child may say that water always goes straight down, because rain falls down and a poured drink drops from a cup. That is a reasonable first picture. On a floor or tray, water can also move sideways, but only while going towards a lower part of the surface.
In the world
Rain runs down roofs into gutters and pipes, which carry it away from walls. Roads and playgrounds are made with slight slopes so puddles can drain. In a garden, a watering can may spread water downhill, while a small wall or channel can guide it where it is needed.
Keep exploring
Other languages
Loading MyLeoNes™…