Materials Required:
Cake mix (any flavor)
Chocolate frosting (to represent bedrock)
Crushed chocolate cookies (to represent parent material)
Crushed graham crackers (to represent subsoil)
Gummy worms or jelly beans (to represent organic matter in topsoil)
Chocolate chips, small candies, or sprinkles (optional, to represent rocks and minerals)
Baking pans
Mixing bowls and utensils
Measuring cups
Oven
Aprons and gloves for hygiene
Plates and utensils for eating
Plastic wrap or boxes for sharing
Steps Involved:
Prepare the Cake Batter: Start by following the instructions on the cake mix box to prepare the batter. Allow students to participate by measuring, mixing, and pouring the batter into the baking pans.
Bake the Cake: Place the cake pans in the oven and bake according to the instructions. While waiting for the cake to bake, discuss the different soil layers that will be represented.
Cool the Cake: Once baked, let the cakes cool completely before decorating.
Frost the Bedrock: Begin decorating by spreading a layer of chocolate frosting on top of the cake to represent the bedrock, the solid layer beneath the soil.
Add the Parent Material: Sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies over the frosting to represent the parent material, where soil begins to form.
Create the Subsoil: Next, add a layer of crushed graham crackers to represent the subsoil, the layer that contains minerals and nutrients.
Top with Organic Matter: Place gummy worms or jelly beans on top of the graham crackers to represent the organic matter found in the topsoil, which supports plant life.
Optional: Sprinkle chocolate chips, small candies, or sprinkles to represent rocks and minerals within the soil.
Discuss the Layers: Have students explain how each layer of their cake represents a different part of the soil structure.
Share or Eat: Once the cakes are decorated, students can either enjoy eating their creation or wrap it up to share with family and friends.