It's Corn!

Kindergarten has been learning all about corn during their first semester thematic unit. From planting, to observing, to harvesting, to tasting, they’ve seen the whole process! Kindergarteners have also learned about products made from corn during science class, as well as written their own corn observations, and read many nonfiction books about the varieties and uses of corn.

This week the students enjoyed a sampling of corn products during daily snack time. On Monday the kindergarten students made their own popcorn! They were deeply engaged during the popping process as they observed the kernels burst into popped corn! They learned about how a little bit of moisture is needed for kernels to pop, the difference between steam and smoke, and the history of popcorn! This snack was a crowd favorite!

The students also sampled candy corn and tortilla chips mid-week, as well as helped to bake homemade cornbread! Everyone helped to follow the recipe and each student had an important role in the preparation. Students used their five senses to observe the cornbread and then enjoyed a piece with honey and butter. This was also a crowd pleaser! 

The tasting of corn products was a great way to end this thematic unit. The students have worked with corn all year both in the garden and in the classroom. Thematic learning helps students make connections between subjects, which results in deeper understanding.