Amazing Sun Fun:Solar Energy Facts & Experiments Gr 6-8 w/ 2 flapper solar oven

Specifically written with the middle school child in mind, this book will lead both the enthusiastic and the reluctant science student to a deeper understanding of the principles of solar energy. Loaded with intriguing facts and do-able, inexpensive experiments, including my signature project from At Home With the Sun, a pizza box solar oven for cooking smokeless s'mores.

SUN FACT – On average 1000 watts of solar energy fall on a 3' by 3' patch of ground – about the size of a sidewalk square. That's enough power to light ten 100 watt light bulbs!

SUN FUN – Build a Sun Dial out of a drink cup and straw. (Check out free download of this complete project.)

Amazing Sun Fun Activities covers the history of the discoveries and uses of solar energy across world cultures beginning with the Greeks 2,500 years ago up to modern times. Written in a friendly, accessible style that connects sophisticated solar energy concepts to everyday aspects of the student's life. The illustrations are accurate without being overly technical, often humorous, definitely full of child appeal and lead to an open, inviting page.

Educational features of special interest to teachers and home-schooling parents include:
• basic experimental approach includes concept of controls
• text and activities encourage scientific method / curiosity / and technique
• reproducible charts and graphs for data gathering and display
• inexpensive readily found materials designed for success and to encourage further exploration
• encourages the desire to innovate and improve upon initial discoveries
• high incentive projects: build a pizza box solar oven to cook Smokeless S'mores!
• clear instructions and diagrams for all experiments
• every project follows a clear protocol: introduction of project purpose & questions being explored, materials list, building it, using it, and often include discussion to facilitate understanding of results and suggestions for further exploration
• adaptable to fulfill many common core requirements