Seuss Snack Science

Ciara McNearly

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Seuss Snack Science

Explore food chemistry and nutrition

In this lesson, students will explore the science behind cooking with a Dr. Seuss twist by making 'Oobleck Smoothies' and 'Horton’s Healthy Muffins'. This lesson is important as it combines creativity with scientific inquiry, allowing students to understand food chemistry and nutrition in a fun and engaging way. It will help students develop practical cooking skills, understand the nutritional value of ingredients, and foster teamwork and creativity.

Audience

Leaders (ages 13-18)

Time

2 hours

Approach

Explore food chemistry and nutrition

Materials

Blender, Mixing bowls, Measuring cups and spoons, Ingredients for Oobleck Smoothies, Ingredients for Horton’s Healthy Muffins, Worksheet: Food Chemistry Exploration, and Discussion: Nutrition and Food Choices

Step 1

Introduction

15 mins

Begin with a brief introduction to Dr. Seuss and his whimsical world.
Explain the day's activities: making 'Oobleck Smoothies' and 'Horton’s Healthy Muffins'.
Discuss the importance of understanding food chemistry and nutrition.

Step 2

Oobleck Smoothies Activity

30 mins

Divide students into small groups.
Provide each group with ingredients and a blender.
Guide them through the process of making Oobleck Smoothies.
Discuss the chemical reactions occurring during blending and mixing.

Step 3

Horton’s Healthy Muffins Activity

30 mins

Provide each group with ingredients and mixing bowls.
Guide them through the process of making Horton’s Healthy Muffins.
Discuss the nutritional value of the ingredients used.

Step 4

Worksheet: Food Chemistry Exploration

20 mins

Distribute the 'Food Chemistry Exploration' worksheet.
Have students complete the worksheet individually or in pairs.
Discuss the answers as a class.

Step 5

Discussion: Nutrition and Food Choices

15 mins

Facilitate a discussion on nutrition and food choices.
Use the provided discussion questions to guide the conversation.
Encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences.

Step 6

Closure

10 mins

Recap the activities and key learnings from the lesson.
Ask students to reflect on what they learned about food chemistry and nutrition.
Encourage them to try making these recipes at home and explore more about food science.

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Worksheet

Food Chemistry Exploration

This worksheet will help students explore the chemical reactions and nutritional aspects of the recipes they made.

Describe the chemical reaction that occurs when blending the Oobleck Smoothie ingredients.

Think about how the ingredients change in texture and consistency.

List the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used in Horton’s Healthy Muffins.

Consider vitamins, minerals, and other health benefits.

Discussion

Nutrition and Food Choices

This discussion will help students reflect on their food choices and understand the importance of nutrition.

Why is it important to understand the nutritional value of the food we eat?

Discuss how nutrition affects health and well-being.

How can we make healthier food choices in our daily lives?

Encourage students to think about practical changes they can make.