popcorn
Activities

Elementary STEAM: Popcorn Science

November 19, 2015 / 14 Comments

 Last week I offered a Popcorn Science class for our Fun Friday program.  I actually had two programs – the first for 2nd through 4th graders and the other for Kindergarten & 1st graders.

The kids were beyond excited to eat the popcorn, but first I wanted to do a little discussion and sharing.  So we began by sharing everything we already know about popcorn.  As we did, I included questions that would be answered during the program:

  • How long have people been eating popcorn?
  • What makes popcorn pop?
  • Does all corn pop?

After our discussion, I shared a great NPR video about popcorn, and at only a minute and a half, it worked out perfectly.  Then we briefly talked (with the older kids) about states of matter and how once popcorn changes it can’t change back.

After the video, I gave each child a straw and a piece of popcorn.  Then I let them figure out what you can do with it.  The kids usually give me a panicked look to start and then the fun starts, popcorn was literally flying through the air as the kids learned how to shoot it from their straws.  It was a lot of fun to watch.  Finally, we got to the most important part – our taste test.

I popped SO much popcorn during my lunch break.  I made plain popcorn with nothing on it, a batch of popcorn with some garlic and seasoned salt, and a batch of kettle corn.  Each child got to try all three and then we voted on our favorite.

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