"Hand Washing with Glitter Germs”

Grade Level: K-2

Objectives:

HE.K.1.1The student will identify proper personal hygiene skills (e.g.,

brushing teeth and hand washing).

HE.1.1.2 The student will verbally list ways to keep germs out of one’s

body.

Performance Descriptors:

Kindergarten students performing at the mastery level will identify proper personal hygiene skills . . .

First grade students performing at the mastery level will verbally list ways to keep germs out of one’s body . . .

Second grade students performing at the mastery level will describe how immunizations and medicines help fight disease.

Objectives of the Lesson:

  1. The students will have a concrete example as to why they should wash their hands with soap and warm water.
  2. The student will understand that germs are smaller than the eye can see.

Materials Needed:

Glitter

Paper towels

Hand lotion

Bucket or pan (to catch the glitter)

A sink with warm running water

Soap

Introduction:

Hand washing is a simple habit that can help keep you healthy. Learn about the benefits of good hand hygiene, as well as when to wash your hands and how to clean them properly.

Learning Plan:

  1. Before conducting this activity, be sure to find out if any students have allergies to hand lotion. (may need to check with school nurse)
  • Ask: What is a germ? (Germs are tiny creatures, or living things,that can cause disease. When they get in our bodies, we won’t know it until we get sick.)
  • How big is a germ? (Germs are so small and sneaky that they creep into ourbodies without being noticed. In fact, germs are so tiny that you need to use a microscope to see them.)
  • Why is it important to wash our hands? (Washing your hands well and often is the best way to remove germs. Wash your hands every time you cough or sneeze, before and after you prepare foods or use the bathroom, after you handle money, and after you visit a sick relative or friend.)
  • Discuss each question.
  1. Put a small amount of hand lotion in each student's hands. Have them rub the lotion all over their hands. Sprinkle glitter on their hands over a pan to catch the excess.
  2. Organize students in three groups or involve all students in the experiment.
  • Instruct group one to try and wipe the glitter off of their hands with a dry paper towel.
  • Instruct group two to try and get the glitter off of their hands with plain, cold water.
  • Instruct group three to use warm water and soap to remove the glitter.
  1. Ask students which method best removes the glitter?
  2. Instruct all students to wash their hands in warm, soapy water.
  3. Students will learn that germs, like glitter, only come off with warm, soapy water.
  4. Flu germs can be washed off the hands and prevent illnesses, such as the flu.

Other Sources: