Inquiry and food? 5 stars.

This example lab (making pretzels and observing yeast under the microscope) would fit seamlessly into my curriculum. A definite do.

Well written. Makes you want to find a case study

This chapter excerpt, although not applicable to my seventh grade curriculum, made me want to find a case study that was. I will most likely purchase this book in the future -- for more supp... See More

This chapter excerpt, although not applicable to my seventh grade curriculum, made me want to find a case study that was. I will most likely purchase this book in the future -- for more support and inspiration AND for the chapter that is entitled "what not to do". An interesting read for lesson planning ideas!

Kitchen Chemistry Pretzels

This article is a great example of how we can engage our students in authentic inquiry, and make science come alive. Although I agree with an earlier review that this lab (and others in the ... See More

This article is a great example of how we can engage our students in authentic inquiry, and make science come alive. Although I agree with an earlier review that this lab (and others in the book) would be best performed in a FACE classroom, it would be an outstanding activity to use in informal situations, as well as for alternative ed students who tend to lack engagement. After all, each time we cook a meal we are doing some type of experiment, either implicitly or explicitly, modifying procedures, and reactants. These activities are interesting for students in grades 6-12, perhaps younger, and do a very nice job of tying science process to results.

Making pretzels teaches inquiry and fermentation

This inquiry-based activity involves students in varying the amount of sugar in pretzel recipes. Students examine yeast under a microscope, followed by recipe manipulation and cooking of pre... See More

This inquiry-based activity involves students in varying the amount of sugar in pretzel recipes. Students examine yeast under a microscope, followed by recipe manipulation and cooking of pretzels. Lab safety regarding food in the science classroom is thoroughly discussed. This is an excellent activity for engaging student interest while learning about fermentation.

Follow the safety procedures

The chapter provides several safety procedures to follow since students will be eating the results of their experiment. I really sit on the fence about this. I would say that unless you ca... See More

The chapter provides several safety procedures to follow since students will be eating the results of their experiment. I really sit on the fence about this. I would say that unless you can do the lab in a family and consumer science room (suggested in the chapter), that students not be allowed to eat the results of their lab work. I like how the labs are written and see that it would inspire students to learn more science.