The 4th graders recently learned about the 5 forms of energy and remember it with the acronym MELTS (mechanical, electrical, light, thermal, and sound). We used recycled pizza boxes and turned them into solar ovens. We talked about how the black paper in the box absorbs heat and light while the foil reflects the light and heat back into the box. We utilized saran wrap (transparent) as a window while still somewhat insulating. The inside of the box was also lined with paper to help further insulate. After 2 days of designing and building our solar ovens, we tested them with smores. Although it was windy, today was a perfect day to utilize solar energy. Our smores melted using thermal energy from the sun. The 4th graders finished their investigation and enjoyed eating their smores!
