We decided to experiment which materials would be the most practical in making an effective umbrella. The children made their very own umbrellas out of a variety of materials, then they dropped water onto these. We all watched carefully to see which umbrellas would absorb or hold the water. This was measured by observing the number of drops and the length of time that they stayed on the umbrella. We also felt the interior, to check if water had seeped through.
Children made umbrellas from paper, plastic, metal, and fabric. Can you guess which were the most waterproof?
After our investigations, we were able to conclude that metal and plastic are both waterproof materials. Paper and fabric was porous and water leaked through the material which became wet and soggy!
