Make the most of sunny and warm days by taking advantage of all the sunlight! The Solar S'mores Activity uses the heat of the sun to create an oven-like effect in a cardboard box. The heat will melt chocolate and warm up marshmallows for a tasty s'mores treat and for a great opportunity to teach a science lesson. Use this activity to learn about solar power, energy, and heat.
What is the science behind the Solar S'mores Activity?
A DIY solar oven is able to heat up food because it holds the heat from the sun and doesn't let all of the heat out. The top layer of the foil-covered box will reflect sunlight into the lower level, which has been covered with plastic wrap. While the plastic wrap allows heat inside due to its transparency, it does not allow heat to escape, much like a greenhouse. Use this lesson as a chance to talk to children about the greenhouse effect and its crucial role in warming our earth.
Download our FREE printable below!
Required Materials:
- Cardboard Box
- Aluminum Foil
- Plastic Wrap
- Graham Crackers
- Chocolate Bars
- Large Marshmallows
1Wrap with Aluminum Foil
Line the aluminum foil around the inside of both sides of the box. Press the foil around the box so that it is form fitted.
2Place the S'mores Inside
Place your graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows on top of the foil in the bottom half of the box.
3Cover with Plastic Wrap
Cover the bottom half of the box containing the crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows with plastic wrap in order to trap the heat inside.
4Let Them Cook
Allow the sun to do all the cooking by heating up the chocolate and marshmallows. Make sure to place the solar oven in direct sunlight on a hot day. Depending on how warm you want your ingredients, the heating process could take 10 to 15 minutes.
5Enjoy Your S'more!
Remove the plastic wrap and make s'mores with the crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. Dig in and get some napkins ready for this tasty treat.
Teach an important lesson on solar power and the greenhouse effect with the Solar S'mores Activity. Be sure to check out our list of science-related products, resources, and professional development.