Make a Solar Oven

Worksheet Description

The worksheet offers a practical project allowing students to construct a basic solar oven using common materials. This oven harnesses the sun’s energy to cook tasty treats, demonstrating the potential and application of solar energy. With a list of materials and a step-by-step guide, the worksheet ensures students have a clear path to successfully creating their solar oven and trying it out with a simple culinary experiment.

To make a solar oven, one starts by cleaning an empty pizza box and creating a flap in its lid. This flap is then covered with aluminum foil, which acts as a reflector to focus sunlight into the box. The interior of the box is lined with black construction paper, which helps absorb and retain the sun’s heat. Transparent plastic or a clear plastic sheet is then positioned over the opening to trap the heat inside, and when placed in direct sunlight with food inside, the solar oven uses the sun’s energy to cook the food.

Through this hands-on project, the worksheet aims to familiarize students with the principles of solar energy and heat absorption. It encourages them to think innovatively about alternative energy sources and how they can be applied in everyday scenarios. The activity also enhances problem-solving and crafting skills as students work to assemble the oven. Moreover, by allowing them to cook a treat, it offers an immediate reward for their efforts, emphasizing the tangible benefits of sustainable energy solutions.