Can You Save FRED? Activity

This is one of those classic science activities, that is always a HUGE hit with the students! Can you save FRED?  

This poor gummy worm, named Fred, is stranded on the top of his overturned boat in the middle of a lake. He cannot swim and he needs to somehow get himself into the life preserver which is currently under the boat.

Without touching Fred, the cup, or the life preserver, can you and your partner save FRED using only the four paper clips provided? What would you do?

This lab is a great review of the scientific method and also a great way to encourage your kids to communicate and cooperate!