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Grade 2 science · A.9 · Matter

Absorb or repel water

Sponges have tiny holes that let them absorb water. Wax paper has wax that keeps water from soaking in, so it repels water instead.

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  1. Ana uses a sponge to soak up juice from the floor. Why does this work?

    • The sponge has tiny holes that take in liquid. (right)
    • The sponge is made of plastic and doesn’t absorb.
    • The sponge melts when it touches juice.
  2. Ines uses a sponge to soak up juice from the floor. Why does this work?

    • The sponge is made of plastic and doesn’t absorb.
    • The sponge melts when it touches juice.
    • The sponge has tiny holes that take in liquid. (right)
  3. Luca puts a sponge on the table and then adds water. What happens?

    • It soaks up water (right)
    • It melts
    • It rolls away

Tip: Sponges have tiny holes that let them absorb water. Wax paper has wax that keeps water from soaking in, so it repels water instead.

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