Objective

By the end of this lesson, Everett will learn basic measuring skills and math concepts through the process of making and canning applesauce. He will understand how to measure ingredients accurately, perform simple calculations, and appreciate the relationship between math and cooking.

Materials and Prep

• Fresh apples (about 10-12 medium-sized)
• Water
• Sugar (optional, to taste)
• Lemon juice (optional, for flavor and preservation)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife (with adult supervision)
• Cutting board
• Large pot for cooking
• Blender or potato masher
• Canning jars and lids
• Labels for jars

Before starting the lesson, ensure that all materials are gathered and that Everett understands basic kitchen safety, especially when using a knife and hot equipment.

Activities

• Apple Measurement Challenge:

  Start by counting how many apples you have. Then, use measuring cups to figure out how much apple pulp you'll create after cooking. Have Everett estimate the total volume of applesauce based on the number of apples used.

• Recipe Conversion:

  Introduce a simple applesauce recipe that measures ingredients in cups. Have Everett convert the recipe to make a larger or smaller batch, practicing multiplication or division as needed.

• Cooking and Measuring:

  As you cook the apples, let Everett measure out water and any additional ingredients. Discuss the importance of accurate measurements in cooking and how it relates to math.

• Canning Process:

  Once the applesauce is ready, guide Everett through the canning process. Have him measure the applesauce into jars, ensuring each jar is filled to the correct level. Discuss why it's important to leave space at the top of the jar.

• Labeling Jars:

  Have Everett create labels for the jars with the date and ingredients. This activity can involve some fun math by figuring out how many labels he needs and how to space them out evenly on the jars.

Talking Points

• "Why do you think measuring is important when we cook?"
• "Can you guess how many cups of applesauce we will get from these apples? Let's find out!"
• "If we want to double the recipe, what do we need to do with the measurements?"
• "How much water do you think we should add? Let's measure it together!"
• "Why do you think we need to leave space in the jar when we can the applesauce?"
• "What do you think will happen if we don't measure correctly?"
• "How can we use math to make sure we have enough jars for all the applesauce?"
• "Let’s think about how we can label our jars neatly and evenly. How should we space them?"
• "What was your favorite part of making applesauce today?"
• "How do you think math will help us in other cooking projects?"