How to Build a Solar Oven

Learn how to harness the power of the sun to cook a tasty snack using a simple DIY solar oven. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Prepare the lid. Ask a grown-up to help you cut a square flap in the top of your pizza box, leaving about an inch of space from the edges. Fold the flap back so it stands up.
2. Create the reflector. Cover the inside of the flap you just cut with aluminum foil, wrapping it tightly so the shiny side faces out. Secure it with tape.
3. Seal the window. Tape a piece of plastic wrap over the opening you cut in the lid to create an airtight window. Make sure the edges are sealed well so no heat escapes.
4. Line the bottom. Place a piece of black construction paper at the bottom of the box. This will help absorb the sun's heat.
5. Cook your snack. Place your cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow inside the box. Use your skewer to prop the foil-covered lid open at an angle that reflects sunlight into the box, then set it in a sunny spot.