This is a fantastic, hands-on, science experiment to do following a quick lesson on the difference between potential and kinetic energy. I have included a brief explanation of how I quickly teach this concept.

The science:

Once we release the rubber bands on the melon the potential energy being stored in the stretch is released and the squeeze is kinetic energy as the bands push to try and revert to their original size.

Notes I Learned in Trails:

It took a while to place enough bands on the melons to crush them. To help this I recommend prepping your watermelon at home by placing 400-500 bands on it ahead of time. Then you can finish the process at school with students in a shorter amount of time. Very small watermelons will be harder to crush as they have less surface area. I suggest a medium sized melon and trying to keep the bands concentrated to the center instead of spreading the force out over more surface area.

You will need approximately 400-800 rubber bands per watermelon.

SC.1.N.1.3 Keep records as appropriate - such as pictorial and written records - of investigations conducted.

SC.K2.CS-CP.1.4 Create data visualizations (e.g., charts and infographics), individually and collaboratively.