Arctic/Inuit Inquiry:

 Blubber

 The students first tested their ability to withstand the cold ice water with their “naked” finger.  The cold made it difficult for students to keep their finger in for even 15 seconds.  Next, I encased their finger in vegetable shortening, and asked them to dip it back into the ice water.  The results? Their finger felt insulated and warm, and the students experienced first hand an important adaptation that is key to the survival of many Arctic animals, especially those that spend time in water.