Looking for a quick and fun project to go with a unit or lesson on space bodies, asteroids, and comets? Create a model of a comet with basic household edible items! This activity works well with a student who is is around age 6 and up. You can make the model with either candy or we have some suggested supplies below if candy isn’t your style.
Video
I have three videos listed below. The first video I recommend for ages 3rd grade and under. We are a big fan of the Dr. Binoc show for the youngest kids. The second video (although the voice is a little high for my taste) is appropriate for kids in 4th to 6th grade. If you have an older child, they may want to skip this video and go on to the last video for middle school students.
Video for Upper Elementary:
Video for Middle School
Edible Comet Project
After watching one of the videos above, your student can successfully demonstrate the main parts of a comet. Supplies needed:
- York Peppermint Patty
- Whipped Cream
- Sugar
- Blue Cookie Icing (the thick kind)
If candy isn’t your style, here are some suggested supplies to use instead: round cracker, salt (don’t eat), spray cheese, and blue icing. To make the model, start with the York patty (this represents the nucleus of the comet).
Next, add the coma (the outer sugar ring around the comet) and the dust tail (whipped cream).
Lastly, create the ion tail out of blue icing. Older students should label their model (we ran out of time!) and/or spend some time defining the different parts.
Finished product:
We hope you’ll try this edible comet at home! Hands on and visual activities are our favorites! If you’re looking to continue studying space, make sure to check out our space unit post!