I remember doing this experiment in 2nd grade. That was over 12 years ago and I still remember. This involves getting an aquarium (or other large container) of ice water, then 3 plastic ziploc bags. (the bigger ones work best) Then having students put their hand in a plan ziploc bag and tape it around their hand. Then fill one bag with shortening, make sure it would be enough to completely surround a hand. Then put another bag into the one with shortening (so their hands aren't in the shortening exactly) Then tape that bag around their other wrist.
Have the student simotaniously put their hands into the ice water. Ask them to tell you which one is warmer. They should report that the one with the shortening or "blubber" is warmer. Then you can tie it to a science lesson about why some arctic animals need blubber. It's a great experiment that gives students the hands on learning that they truly need!
For a full list of instructions/supplies visit this link:
http://octopus.gma.org/surfing/antarctica/blubber.html
Enjoy!
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