Make a UV Bead Bracelet

About
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.