Popcorn is not just a treat.
Science projects utilizing everyday items, including popcorn, keep students interested in science. As an added bonus, popcorn is inexpensive. Many classroom projects can be modified for the individual.
Counting Kernels
How many?
Determining which brand of popcorn pops the most kernels is a science project for students. First, pick out three to four brands of popcorn with each bag having the same weight and flavor of popcorn. Pop them individually in the microwave for the same amount of time on the same power. Instruct the students to count the number of popped kernels in each bag, wearing gloves if they plan on eating the popcorn after the activity.
After counting the popped kernels, ask the students to record these values in a table. Repeat the complete process at least five times. Next, tell the students to find the average number of popped kernels for each brand and then create a bar graph using these averages. Post the graphs around the room so students can compare results.
Sprouting Kernels
Will microwave popcorn sprout?
Popcorn kernels are seeds from corn plants. Most seeds will sprout under the right conditions. Ask the question which will sprout more quickly, microwave popcorn kernels or regular bagged kernels?
Divide students into groups of three. Give each group 10 small pots, enough soil to fill each pot, 10 kernels of plain microwave popcorn, 10 kernels of bagged popcorn and water. Instruct students to fill each pot with soil, to press down the soil, and to push two seeds into each pot to a depth of about twice the seed's diameter. Each of five pots should have regular popcorn and the other five should have microwave popcorn. Label each pot with the type of kernel and a letter designation. Once potted, water until evenly damp, and place in a sunlit area.
Tell students to check daily on the progress of their kernels, watering them as needed to maintain moisture levels. Instruct them to record their watering schedule and the number of days until each seed sprouts for 14 days. Record this information on a bar graph. Combine class data and create a class graph.
Students could repeat this project with various flavors or types of popcorn as a continuing class project.
Microwave Popcorn and Air Poppers
Another project answers the question, "Can microwave popcorn be popped in an air popper?" Before students begin testing this question, instruct them to research popcorn and microwave popcorn.
Next have the students, in groups, create posters with the results of their research. Finally, ask students to write a hypothesis: a statement arguing whether or not they think microwave popcorn will pop in an air popper.
In order to test their hypotheses, instruct students to cut open popcorn bags and following the air popper directions, begin popping. Afterward ask students to record whether or not their hypotheses were correct. As a group, share results.
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