Tasty Earth Science

Ms. DeMeio’s 8th grade science students used graham crackers, Rice Krispie treats, chocolate chips, and Cool Whip to model plate boundaries in a deliciously hands-on lesson.

Learning about Earth’s shifting plates got a sweet upgrade in Ms. DeMeio’s 8th grade science class. Students modeled plate boundaries using everyday snacks—graham crackers and Rice Krispie treats for tectonic plates, Cool Whip for the mantle, and chocolate chips to represent volcanic activity.

Through this interactive activity, students discovered how plates move, collide, and separate, gaining a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our planet. The edible models not only made abstract concepts tangible, but also added an extra layer of fun (and flavor!) to the lesson.

The classroom buzzed with excitement as students pushed, pulled, and shifted their tasty “tectonic plates,” watching earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountain ranges come to life before their eyes.

Hands-on projects like this show the power of creative teaching—bringing science to life in ways students will remember long after the last chocolate chip has been eaten!