This summer, turn up the heat on learning with a DIY project that's not only educational but also delicious! Building a solar oven is a fantastic way to teach kids about renewable energy, sustainability, and the science of cooking.
Materials Needed
All you need are a few simple items:
A pizza box (or similar cardboard box)
Aluminum foil
Plastic wrap
Black construction paper
Tape
A stick or straw to prop the lid
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cut a flap in the lid of the box, leaving one side attached.
Line the inside of the flap and the box with aluminum foil, shiny side out, and tape it in place.
Place black paper at the bottom of the box to absorb heat.
Seal the lid's opening with plastic wrap to create a window that traps the sun's heat.
Place food inside, prop the lid open with the stick, and angle it towards the sun.
The Science of Solar Cooking
Explain how the black paper absorbs heat while the foil reflects it, concentrating the warmth to cook food. Discuss how solar power is a clean, renewable energy source.
Enjoy your sun-cooked treats and the satisfaction of cooking with a homemade appliance. Share your solar oven successes with us!
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