Solar S'mores

9-21-16
Yesterday, we did an experiment about solar s'mores.  It was an experiment instead of an investigation because we were testing things.  We were testing to see if the sun was going to melt the chocolate with different cups.  Which cup would melt the chocolate fastest?  The clear cup won.  [Another group: The black cup melted the chocolate the fastest.]  I love this experiment because we got to eat them after the experiment.    O.S., 2nd grade & E.G., 3rd grade & G.M., 2nd grade

For each group, you will need Graham crackers, chocolate pieces (I use Hershey's snack-size bars and break each one in half), marshmallows (I get the flat StackerMallows), napkins or muffin papers, a thermometer, and clear plastic party cups (one painted white, one painted black, one covered in foil, and one control left clear).

First, the children hypothesize about under which cup the sun will melt the chocolate first.  They also consider safety.  What will we need to make sure this experiment is safe?  They then assemble their s'mores (without a top Graham cracker) and create a scientific illustration of the set-up before they take it into the sun.   The children also use thermometers to measure the indoor temperature in degrees Celsius.

Next, we move outside and observe as the sun's energy works its magic.  While they wait, the children use the thermometer once again to measure the outdoor temperature in degrees Celsius.

To reinforce our science safety rules, eating can only happen after the science is complete.  The children write up their results and apply their new knowledge to recommend the best color car to purchase in a hot climate.  Hint: We don't recommend a clear or black car.