Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand the basics of sourdough and be able to make their own sourdough starter.

Materials and Prep

• Flour
• Water
• Glass jar
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap or a cloth
• A notebook and pen/pencil

Before starting the lesson, make sure the student has a basic understanding of measuring and mixing ingredients.

Activities

1. Introduction to Sourdough: Show the student pictures or videos of different types of bread and explain that sourdough is a special kind of bread that tastes tangy and delicious.
2. Mixing the Starter: Guide the student in measuring equal parts of flour and water into the glass jar. Stir well until there are no lumps. Cover the jar with plastic wrap or a cloth and set it aside in a warm spot.
3. Observation: Each day, have the student observe the changes in the jar. Discuss the bubbles and the smell. Encourage them to draw or write about their observations in their notebook.
4. Feeding the Starter: After 24 hours, show the student how to discard half of the starter and then add equal parts of flour and water again. Repeat this process daily for 5-7 days.
5. Baking Bread: Once the starter is active and bubbly, guide the student in using it to make a simple loaf of sourdough bread. Explain the steps involved in kneading, shaping, and baking the bread.

Talking Points

• "Sourdough is a special kind of bread that tastes tangy and delicious. It's made using a special ingredient called sourdough starter."
• "To make sourdough starter, we mix equal parts of flour and water in a jar. We cover it and let it sit for a few days."
• "The starter will start to bubble and smell different. It's alive! We need to feed it every day by adding more flour and water."
• "After a few days, the starter will be ready to make bread. We can use it to make a delicious loaf of sourdough bread."
• "Baking bread involves kneading the dough, shaping it into a loaf, and baking it in the oven. It takes time, but the result is worth it!"