Makes six coastlines

Recipe for edible clay:

1 1/2 cup sugar
1 1/3 cup shortening
1 cup cocoa powder
4 eggs

4 cups flour 

Mix ingredients in order. If the dough is sticky, add more flour. 

Go on, throw it about a bit; it's not fatal. In my experience it doesn't matter what quantities you fuss over; you simply need a dough the kids can work by hand and with tools. 

Divide into balls and have your geography lesson shape their lumps into a coastline. Or a map of South America. Or Africa. Or mountains and valleys. Or anything.

Bake at 375 F for 10-12 minutes or until done. Any fule no how icing sugar makes great rivers. Seas. Estuaries. Ports. Reservoirs...