Crystal Garden Observation Lab

Rosalind Franklin’s work required patience, careful preparation, and close observation. In this activity, children grow simple crystals and keep a scientist’s notebook as the crystals change over time.

This does not reproduce Franklin’s DNA crystallography, but it introduces the idea that crystals and ordered structures can reveal important information to scientists.

Image suggestion:
A windowsill crystal jar beside a notebook labeled “Jennifer’s Lab Notes.”

Materials:
Epsom salt or table salt, warm water, clear jar, spoon, string or pipe cleaner, pencil, paper towel, notebook.

Experiment / Activity:
Children dissolve salt in warm water, suspend a string or pipe cleaner in the jar, and observe crystal growth over several days. They record date, time, appearance, and changes.

What children learn:
Science requires patience. Careful observation over time can reveal patterns.