Cook with a Solar Oven

In this activity, learners make their own solar oven to bake s'mores and learn about how solar energy is absorbed on Earth. Learners investigate how simple material choices in their pizza box-oven help reflect (aluminum foil), absorb (black construction paper), and trap (plastic wrap) energy from the Sun. There is an optional step to add a thermometer in the oven to see how high the temperature can go. Step-by-step instructions are included with photos. This activity needs a sunny day. Activity guide includes a "What's going on?" explanation and connections to relevant science concepts around the oven material choices using helpful diagrams.