Outdoor Learning: Create a DIY Solar Oven and Cook with the Sun

Activity Description:

Teach kids about solar energy and sustainability by building a simple solar oven to cook snacks using the power of the sun! This hands-on outdoor experiment blends science, engineering, and cooking, making it a fun and educational activity.

How to Do It:

1. Gather Materials

• A cardboard box with a lid (pizza boxes work great)

• Aluminum foil

• Plastic wrap or a transparent food bag

• Black construction paper

• Tape and glue

• A ruler and scissors

• A stick or straw to prop open the lid

2. Build the Solar Oven

• Cut a Flap: Cut a three-sided flap in the lid of the box, leaving one side attached to act as a hinge.

• Line with Foil: Cover the inside of the flap with aluminum foil, securing it with glue or tape. This will reflect sunlight into the oven.

• Add a Plastic Window: Tape a layer of plastic wrap over the opening to trap heat inside.

• Place Black Paper Inside: Line the bottom of the box with black construction paper to absorb heat.

3. Position the Oven

• Take the oven outside on a sunny day (temperatures above 75°F work best).

• Use a stick or straw to prop the foil-covered lid at an angle to reflect sunlight into the box.

• Turn the oven to face direct sunlight for maximum heat.

4. Cook a Simple Recipe

• S’mores: Place a graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow inside and let it melt.

• Melted Cheese Sandwiches: Put a sandwich inside and watch the cheese melt slowly.

• Nachos: Arrange tortilla chips with cheese and let the heat melt the toppings.

5. Observe the Science in Action

• Check the food every 10–15 minutes to see how long it takes to cook.

• Discuss how the solar oven works—sunlight reflects off the foil, passes through the plastic, and gets trapped inside, heating up the food.

• Compare results at different times of the day or in different weather conditions.

6. Experiment with Variables

• Try using different colors of paper inside the oven to see which absorbs the most heat.

• Use a thermometer to measure the temperature inside the solar oven.

• Make multiple ovens and compare designs for efficiency.

7. Discuss Real-World Applications

• Talk about how solar energy is used for cooking, heating homes, and generating electricity.

• Explain how solar ovens help people in remote areas cook food without electricity or fuel.

8. Celebrate the Experiment

• Once the food is ready, enjoy the meal together outside.

• Reflect on what worked well and how the design could be improved for better cooking next time.

Bonus Tip:

On a windy day, place a clear plastic container over the solar oven to keep the heat inside.

This exciting outdoor STEM activity teaches kids about renewable energy, engineering, and sustainability while letting them enjoy a delicious sun-cooked treat!