Where’s the Chemistry in My Food?

by Tanisha Williams

Introduction Concept Map Project Calendar Lesson Plans Letter to Parents Assessments Resources Modifications Grant

Description It is no secret that humans enjoy eating. In fact, it is one activity that we must do in order to survive. That is one reason why this project is centered around food (healthy food). Every student is familiar with food, and at the same time, food is a subject that is general enough so that each student can develop a unique question to answer with their projects. Students will be separated into groups of 3-4 and will be asked to prepare their favorite meal, which is to include the main course, one side item and a drink of choice. Any extra items included, for example, ice cream, will be awarded extra credit per item. Most importantly, students are to formulate a question, for each item, that they will answer during the process of preparing that item. Sample questions include: what chemical reactions take place while preparing (the item’s name), what is the difference between canned vegetables and frozen vegetables, what exactly is a fountain drink, and why didn’t my Jello solidify? What ever the question chosen, students must discuss key chemistry terms that have already been discussed in class and may also look ahead in their textbooks to find additional information to help support the answer to their questions. Students will be encouraged to make use of outside sources, such as field experts, the internet and the library to enhance their projects. The class textbook is one resource, provided by the district to every student, that all will have access to. Students will be able to use the computer in the classroom or in the school library to aide them in their research. Although it may give the students a better insight, it is not required that the students actually prepare the meals for their individual projects. However, if they chose to actually prepare a meal, or parts of a meal, to aid in their research, each group will be given a budget of $25 for groceries. They will present the teacher with a list of items needed, and these items will be made available for them. Every request is deducted from their $25 budget until their budget is consumed. For the presentation, they can construct a virtual meal on the computer or even create a cardboard representation. Students will present their projects to the class at the end of the sixth week period. After all groups have presented their projects, the class will vote on which one was their favorite meal out of the meals presented. The class will then prepare it during the next class/lab period for all to enjoy. Grades will be awarded for participation, completion and presentation of the project. A potential problem may be that some students can not afford to buy the necessary items needed to complete this project, and the solution to that is to have all items available, for the students to use and/or check out, in the classroom. Another potential problem that exists in many group settings is the tendency for some students to do all of the work, which is mainly due to, some students who choose not to do any work. Once the groups have been assigned and topics/questions have been chosen, students will submit their plan of action, along with group members’ names and duties that will be assigned by the group.