The University of Chicago has found that when children get a hands-on approach to science, they retain knowledge better and are more easily able to access it later on. What better way to learn about the power of the sun than by performing DIY solar experiments as a family? With these three solar projects, you are certain to get your little scientist’s wheels turning.
Human sundial
All you need for this fun experiment is your little scientist, some chalk, and the sun to learn how shadows are created and about the earth’s rotation. Start by positioning your child in the center of your driveway or any open space where the sun shines directly. Use the chalk to draw around their feet to mark their standing position, and then draw the outline of their shadow. Label the time next to this initial shadow.
Every two hours, bring your child back to the exact same spot, ensuring their feet align with the original chalk outline. Draw and label their new shadow each time. As the day progresses, you’ll notice the shadow changing in length and direction. This simple activity vividly demonstrates how the earth’s rotation affects the position of the sun in the sky, and consequently, the shadows it casts. Over a 10-hour period, this experiment will show the movement of the sun from east to west, helping children understand the concept of time and the earth’s rotation. By the end of the day, your child will have a clear visual representation of how our orientation to the sun changes, turning a simple driveway into a dynamic learning experience.
Melted crayon art
If your child is more into painting than protons, get their science interests peaked by using the sun to create art. Affix crayons to a canvas with a hot glue gun in whatever pattern your child prefers, but make sure that there is enough room for the crayon to run without spilling off the edge. Encourage them to think creatively about their design, maybe even arranging the crayons to form a rainbow, a heart, or a favorite character. Once their design is complete, stand the canvas up directly in the sun’s path and wait. Over the next few hours, the crayons should begin to melt, creating vibrant streaks of color that blend together in unique and unpredictable ways. The melting process not only results in a beautiful and colorful piece of art but also provides a fascinating demonstration of how solar heat can transform materials. The finished product will be a fun, personalized picture you can proudly hang in their room.
Solar oven s’mores
The concept of using the sun’s heat to cook your food certainly isn’t a new one. However, it probably is for your kids! All you need is a pizza box, plastic wrap, tape, and aluminum foil to make the perfect temporary solar oven.
Using solar energy for cooking is a fantastic way to teach kids about renewable energy sources and sustainability. Solar energy is abundant and free, making it an excellent resource for various applications, including cooking. By harnessing the sun’s rays, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and decrease our carbon footprint. The process of cooking with solar energy, such as with a solar oven, is not only educational but also environmentally friendly. This simple yet effective project demonstrates how renewable energy can be utilized in everyday life, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices for the future of our planet.
Simply cut a large flap in the lid and cover all surfaces in the foil with shiny side facing out. Attach the plastic wrap over the opening in the lid, being sure to seal every edge to help lock in the heat. Next, stack chocolate and marshmallows on pieces of graham cracker, place on a plate, and put them inside your solar oven. You will need to prop up the foil-covered flap and position it where the sun’s rays can reflect onto your s’mores. Hard as it may be, patience is key now. Depending on the temperature and time of day, it may take upwards of an hour, but your delicious sun-cooked s’mores will be well worth it!
If your children really enjoy this experiment, you can easily make a more permanent solar oven using supplies found at your local hardware store. Take the s’mores experiment to the next level by comparing how quickly various types of chocolate melt. Also, solar ovens can be used for so much more than just simple snacks!
