There are many animals in the Arctic that have a thick layer of fat (blubber) to help them survive the frigid temperatures. The blubber acts as an insulator. Kindergarten scientists investigated how blubber works. They placed one hand in icy water with just a Ziploc bag to protect their hand. In the other bag was a layer of Crisco shortening (blubber). When they plunged the insulated hand in the water, it remained warm.