Demonstrating overcrowding for the kids can be lots of fun.  I like to take the kids outside and using the sidewalk square show them what overcrowding look like.  I'll start with 4 kids -each in a corner. The rules are once you are planted you can no move your feet.  I keep "planting" more students until they are starting to have trouble staying up.  Once you get all the giggles quieted down-you can explain what happens to the plants that are overcrowded and the methods used to reduce crowding. I have found the more interactive the kids are with an idea the better they learn the concept. All my 3rd and 4th graders can explain overcrowding and methods to fix it very well.

Submitted by:

J. Walbring

Science Lab Coordinator

Indiana