Science Stations – Mixtures and Solutions

Are you looking for a hands-on way for your students to explore the differences between mixtures and solutions? While learning about this topic can be interesting, students find it much more fun and meaningful to create combinations of materials and determine if a mixture or solution was made.

To set up these science stations, print and cut out each of the 8 station cards. Place each station card around the room with the required materials for each. Materials for each investigation are listed on each card. These may include:

• Lemon juice
• Sand
• Vinegar
• Chocolate chips
• Funnel
• Etc.

Students will rotate through each station and record their findings on the provided recording sheet.

Through this activity, students will create different combinations of substances and determine if a mixture or solution was formed.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your science lessons. 

In addition to individual student work time, use this set of station cards to enhance learning through guided science groups, whole class lessons, or remote learning assignments. 

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

If there are students who need a bit of support, invite them to reference posters or anchor charts that show the difference between mixtures and solutions. Additionally, these mini-labs can be completed with a teacher in a small group setting.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

For students who need a bit of a challenge, encourage them to create a list of additional mixtures and solutions that they may find in their homes.

Plan lessons for all ability levels with our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies! 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and answer key are also included with this download.

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Sustainability Tip: Print a few recording sheets on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a whiteboard marker, then erase and reuse them. 

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This resource was created by Madison Evans, a teacher in North Carolina and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time: