Fire and its properties
Long ago fire was mysterious and frightening for people. Later they learned to start it by rubbing two objects together and used it for warmth, cooking and light. Fire needs three things to burn: fuel (wood, coal, gas), oxygen (from the air) and heat (a spark, a match). If any one is missing, the fire goes out. Burning gives off heat and gases. A destructive fire is fire out of human control; it can cause great harm to people, homes and forests.
Demonstration run only by the teacher (adult) “Candle and jar”: a lit candle on the table, children standing at least 1 metre away. The adult covers the candle with a clear glass jar. Children watch: the candle goes out within seconds. Why? Conclusion: fire needs oxygen to burn. Safety: children do not touch fire, a bowl of water stands nearby, long hair is tied back; playing with matches or candles is strictly forbidden.