8th graders Build Solar Ovens

8^th grade students explored both the engineering design process and properties of thermal energy by designing and building solar ovens. Students were challenged to work within specific constraints on dimensions and materials to build a solar oven that could cook a s’more. As a part of the design process, ovens were tested, redesigned, and improved before final testing. Sunny skies allowed for successful final tests, delicious s’mores, and great fun. After pre-heating, student ovens were, on average, 20 degrees Celsius warmer than their initial temperature measurements.