Marshmallow Models

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
No glue is needed for learners of any age to become marshmallow architects or engineers. Using marshmallows and water (and maybe edible decorations like peanut butter, pretzels, gumdrops, etc.), learners wet a few marshamallows at a time and stick them together bit by bit to construct whatever models they want.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per student
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • Dish of water
  • Marshmallows—regular size and/or mini
  • Peanut butter, pretzels, gumdrops, sprinkles, animal-shaped cookies or crackers (optional)
  • Picture of a real-life structure you want to model (if available)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Architectural Engineering
    • Technology
      • Construction
  • Physical Sciences
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Bonding
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts
  • Food and Cooking
  • Model Building

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, The Regents of the University of California, 2010