#  >> K-12 >> K-12 For Parents

How to Make a Model of the Layers of the Earth With Foods

The structure of the Earth is a common topic in elementary schools, often learned alongside volcanology and the water cycle. Building a model of the layers of the earth can help children remember the information better, which will assist them in school and build a firm foundation for later earth science classes. Using food to build this model can make the activity particularly enjoyable, as many children enjoy playing with goo, and eating it later is its own reward

Things You'll Need

  • Clear glass oven-safe container at least 5 inches deep and 6 inches wide
  • 4 mixing bowls
  • Mixing spoon
  • Whisk/fork
  • Rubber scraper
  • Oven
  • Pouch of Ghirardelli Brownie Mix
  • Egg
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • Large container of applesauce
  • Food coloring: red and orange
  • Jell-O Vanilla Instant Pudding
  • Milk
  • Graham crackers
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Create the earth’s inner core. Since the inner core is dense and solid, make this out of brownies. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 2

      Lightly grease or spray with nonstick cooking spray the inside bottom of the glass container and about 1 inch up its walls. Crack the egg in into the bowl, disposing of the shell either down a garbage disposal or the trash, add the 1/3 cup water and 1/3 cup vegetable oil.

    • 3

      Blend by stirring with the mixing spoon or a fork. Add the brownie mix and stir until it is thoroughly moistened. Pour or spoon the batter into the glass container. Bake this in the oven for around 45 to 50 minutes. The exact cooking time will vary by dish size. Let cool to the point where the container can be safely handled with bare hands before continuing.

    • 4

      Create the earth’s outer core. This is a molten, liquid layer, so use the applesauce to create this layer. First pour the applesauce into a mixing bowl, and add the red food coloring.

    • 5

      Add a small amount at first, stir thoroughly, and add more as needed until the applesauce is distinctly red. Pour this mixture on top of the brownies until this layer is slightly thicker than the inner core.

    • 6

      Make the mantle. Vanilla pudding will be used to simulate the mantle, which is liquid but highly viscous. The exact amount of pudding needed will vary depending on the pan size, but for each container of pudding mix, add 2 cups of milk.

    • 7

      Whisk ingredients together, and place the bowl in the refrigerator until the mixture sets. Take it out of the refrigerator and gently spoon it over the applesauce. Spread the pudding around to fill in any holes in the layer. Avoid mixing the two layers as much as possible. Continue adding pudding until that layer is slightly thicker than either of the core layers.

    • 8

      Add the crust. Put graham crackers in a bowel and crush them either with your fist or a spoon until they are granular. Lightly sprinkle the crumbs on top of the pudding until it is completely covered.

    • 9

      Before serving up and eating the Earth, enjoy the visual effect of the dessert. Ask the child to identify each layer (inner core, outer core, mantle, crust) and to explain the characteristics of each. Reward with a section of the dessert.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved