Activity: Blubber GloveThis teacher assisted activity will help the children to understand how the layer of blubber keeps the polar bear warm. I got this idea from the (Editors of Publications International, Ltd). These are the items you will need:
Crisco, 1 cup
2 large zip-lock bags
Bucket for ice and water
Fill the bowl with ice and water. With one bag filled with the shortening, the child places his hand in the other zip-lock bag, used as a glove. He then slides it into the bag of "blubber". Seal the edges on each side as close to the child's hand as possible. Help the child to swish the shortening evenly around his hand, then dip it into the bucket of ice water. As the child tests the ice water with the other hand, ask to compare how it felt with and without the "blubber glove". Make a chart to record the student's observations, with and without the "blubber". Explain that the polar bear has up to 4 inches of blubber that insulates his body to keep him warm.