Make a UV Bead Bracelet

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Make this simple UV bead bracelet to track how often you need to reapply sunscreen and how strong the UV rays are on any given day!

Credits: WQED

Standards

PA STEELS Science Standards (K–5)

Scientific & Engineering Practices (SEPs)
  • SEP1 – Asking Questions & Defining Problems
    Students ask questions about UV light and make predictions about bead color changes.
  • SEP3 – Planning & Carrying Out Investigations
    Students test beads in sunlight, shade, indoors, etc.
  • SEP4 – Analyzing & Interpreting Data
    Students observe color changes and compare conditions.
  • SEP6 – Constructing Explanations
    Students explain why beads change color when exposed to UV light.
  • SEP7 – Engaging in Argument from Evidence
    Students use observations to support claims about UV exposure.

PS4: Waves & Their Applications (Light)
  • PS4.A (K–5): Light travels from a source and can be detected.
  • PS4.B (K–5): Objects can block, absorb, or transmit light.
  • PS4.C (K–5): Some materials respond to light in observable ways (e.g., UV beads).
ESS3: Earth & Human Activity
  • ESS3.C (K–5): Human actions can reduce risks from environmental hazards (e.g., UV safety, sunscreen, shade).

PA Core Math Standards (K–5)
  • CC.2.4.2.A.1 – CC.2.4.5.A.2
    Represent and interpret data using charts, tables, or simple graphs.
  • CC.2.3.K–5.A (Measurement)
    Use tools to measure time or conditions (e.g., “How long until beads change color?”).

PA Core ELA Standards (K–5)
  • CC.1.2.K–5.A
    Identify main ideas and key details (e.g., what UV light is).
  • CC.1.2.K–5.B
    Ask and answer questions about scientific topics.
  • CC.1.4.K–5.S–T
    Record observations, write explanations, and use evidence.
  • CC.1.5.K–5.A–D
    Participate in collaborative discussions about results.
  • CC.1.5.K–5.E
    Report findings clearly.