In this lesson, students will build models that show how stars fuse hydrogen in the core and release energy.

There are 2 versions included:

1. MIDDLE SCHOOL VERSION: In this version, students will model the fusion of protons only. They will use white mini-marshmallows to show the fusion of hydrogen all the way up to iron (where fusion stops).

2. HIGH SCHOOL VERSION: In this version, students will model the fusion of protons and neutrons. They will use white mini-marshmallows as protons, colored mini-marshmallows as neutrons, and popcorn kernels (or substitute with pasta or beans) to show energy released. In this version students will create 4 helium atoms.

Both versions are fully editable.