Coconuts for You

Purpose: To determine where molds grow best

Materials

• coconut
• rubber band
• large plastic bag
• science journal

Teacher Prep.

Determine the number of coconuts needed for class. Break each coconut in half and pour out the liquid. Expose the coconuts to the open air for about two hours prior to giving them to the students.

Procedure

1. Observe the coconut and record your observations in your science journal.
2. Place the two halves of the coconut back together and place them in a large plastic bag.
3. Secure the end of the plastic bag with a rubberband.
4. Place the coconut in the plastic bag in a warm dark place for one week.
5. Observe the coconut both inside and outside once each day for seven days. Record your observations and make detail drawings of any growths found.

 

Conclusion

1. How did the coconut look on the outside? Inside?
2. Where did the mold come from?
3. Why did the inside of the coconut grow mold?