Here Extension and 4-H Professionals will find ready-to-use instructions, engaging lesson plans, and exciting activities that bring food science to life for K-12 students. Whether you are leading an afterschool program, planning a short activity, or looking for fresh ideas to spark curiosity, these food-related extracurricular experiences are designed to be easy to implement and fun for learners of all ages.
The Science of Pizza
In this activity, students will explore the science behind pizza. They will learn how macromolecules interact to form networks in cheese and bread. Students will engage in hands-on activities including cheese, pizza dough, and tomato sauce making.
Duration: 1-3 hours
Audience: Middle and High-school
Insects, Food, and You
The name of the activity gives it all away - insects as a source of food. In this activity, students will test their knowledge and learn interesting facts about insects as a source of protein.
Duration: 30-45 minutes
Audience: K-12, (Trivia for Middle and High-school)
Food S.A.L.S.A.
In this activity, students will learn about food deserts and food insecurity. Food deserts can lead to poor diets, and in this lesson, students will learn how food preservation methods such as canning can help minimize the issue.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Audience: Middle and High-school
The Science of Bubble Drinks
In this activity, students will learn about the science behind making bubble tea and drinks, including how bursting balls (also known as popping boba) are made, the origin of boba pearls, and the different types of milk that can be used to create this popular drink!
Duration: 45-90 minutes
Audience: 2nd grade and up
Taste the Rainbow
In this activity, students will learn about the science behind making bursting balls (also known as popping boba) that can be used to flavor drinks, desserts, ice cream and much more!
Duration: 45 minutes
Audience: Kindergarten and First Grade
