Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will understand the basic concepts of chemistry related to baking and be able to apply them in your own baking experiments.
Materials and Prep
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Oven or stovetop
- Ingredients for a simple recipe (e.g., flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, milk)
- An adult to supervise the baking process
Prior to the lesson, make sure you have all the necessary materials and ingredients ready. Also, ensure that you have a safe and clean workspace for baking.
Activities
Introduction to Ingredients: Start by discussing different ingredients commonly used in baking, such as flour, sugar, eggs, and milk. Explain their roles in a recipe and how they interact with each other.
Measuring and Mixing: Teach the importance of accurate measurements in baking. Show the student how to use measuring cups and spoons correctly. Then, guide them through measuring and mixing the ingredients for a simple recipe.
Observing Changes: While the recipe is baking, discuss with the student the changes they observe, such as the dough rising or the batter turning into a solid cake. Explain the chemical reactions that occur during baking.
Taste Test and Analysis: Once the baked goods are ready, have a taste test with the student. Discuss the flavors and textures they experience and relate them back to the ingredients and chemical reactions that took place.
First Grade Talking Points
- "In baking, we use different ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and milk to make delicious treats."
- "When we measure ingredients, we need to be careful and use the right amount so that our baked goods turn out yummy."
- "During baking, the ingredients mix together and change. This is called a chemical reaction."
- "Chemical reactions make the dough rise and turn into a fluffy cake or cookies."
- "When we taste our baked goods, we can think about how the different ingredients work together to create the flavors and textures we enjoy."