Fizzing Shamrock Art is an engaging activity that teaches students about St. Patrick’s Day and encourages them to celebrate artistic and scientific endeavors simultaneously. Painting shamrocks encourages self-expression and creativity, while adding vinegar to paint infused with baking soda will teach students about chemistry. This activity proves that science and art can and do coexist.
What is St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day honors Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The 19th and 20th centuries saw an influx of Irish immigrants on American soil, along with many Irish traditions and celebrations. St. Patrick’s Day is now commonly celebrated across the Untied States, regardless of Irish heritage. The holiday presents the perfect opportunity to learn about the multicultural history of the United States and the continued celebration of each and every background.
How does Fizzing Shamrock Art work?
When baking soda and vinegar come into contact, an acid-base reaction occurs, which releases carbon dioxide. Baking soda is a base, and vinegar is an acid. The resulting carbon dioxide creates bubbles and foam, which is what we see on the paint in this activity. The reaction is simple, but it creates an amazing visual that will excite students of all ages!
Why is focusing on art in science important in early childhood education?
Art and science are not mutually exclusive subjects. The two are founded on similar principles of discovery, inquiry, and creativity. Children are natural explorers, creators, and questioners, bringing together the best of both fields. Focusing on art in science from a young age will encourage children to observe and explore on multiple levels.
Download our FREE printable below!
Required Materials:
- White Construction Paper (cut into shamrocks)
- Green Paint
- Baking Soda
- White Vinegar
- Eyedropper
- Scissors
- Paintbrushes
- Mess Mat
1Make the Shamrocks
Fold pieces of white construction paper in half, and cut out shamrock shapes.
2Combine Paint and Baking Soda
Mix 2 tablespoons of green paint with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. We chose the traditional color of shamrocks and St. Patrick’s Day, but you can choose another color if you prefer. If you want to make a larger batch of paint, be sure to maintain the 2:1 ratio.
3Paint the Shamrocks
Place shamrocks onto mess mat. Paint the shamrocks with the paint mixture. Don't worry about letting the paint dry.
4Add Vinegar and Watch!
Using an eyedropper, place droplets of white vinegar wherever desired on the shamrock. Watch the amazing reaction unfold!
Include the Fizzing Shamrock Art Activity in the classroom to teach students about chemistry and encourage creative thinking. Painting the shamrocks will help students to further develop fine motor skills and allow creativity to soar! Be sure to browse through our selection of art supplies, activity ideas, and seasonal crafts for more inspiration.
