Popcorn

Robinson, Veronices                 Beasley Academic Center
                                    1-312-536-8745
                          

Objectives

1) Students will learn what causes popcorn to pop.
2) Students will compare the volume of popped and unpopped corn. 
3) Students will compare the weight of popped and unpopped corn. 
4) Students will measure the distance the popcorn will pop. 
5) Students will experiment to find the proper oil temperature for perfect popcorn. 
6) Students will research other methods of popping popcorn; discuss these methods and 
   problems that might be encountered. 

Equipment and Materials

popcorn different kinds
popcorn popper
yardstick or meter stick
balance
bowl or pan per popper
worksheet

Recommended Strategies

     Introduce the unit on grains.  Emphasize that some experiments will be performed 
using different kinds of popcorn. Divide into groups and go to assigned work 
stations. Complete the objectives on the worksheets. 

     Each group will record its findings on the chalkboard as the worksheet is 
completed.  The class will discuss all results. 

     Prepare a transparency of the inside of a popcorn seed; discuss the labeled 
parts.  Prepare a transparency that consists of interesting facts about popcorn; 
discuss with the class. 


Bibliography

Gardner, Robert. Kitchen Chemistry. New York: Julian Messner, 1982. 
de Paola, Tomie. The Popcorn Book. New York: Holiday House, 1978. 
Rahn, Joan Elma. Grocery Store Botany. New York: Atheneum, 1974. 
Selsam, Millicent. Popcorn. New York: William Morrow and Company, 1976. 
The Popcorn Institute. 111 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60601, 312/644-6610 
Wyler, Rose. Science Fun With Peanuts and Popcorn. New York: Julian Messner, 1986.