At Clinton Middle School, students are eating their schoolwork.
Teacher Katie Frederick’s “Cooking with Chemistry” course introduces students to scientific concepts applying them to a cooking class—a class that’s taking full advantage of new supplies with the help of an MEC Strengthening Schools Grant, funded via partnership dollars through our power supplier Wolverine Power Cooperative.
A Dash of Inspiration
Frederick developed the concept for the class while looking for a way to show her students that their chemistry curriculum had real-world applications.
One day, her own children wanted to make a cake, but there were no eggs in the house. Frederick explained that they could substitute other ingredients with similar properties. This inspired the first project of the new class: Bake a cake without using eggs.
The school’s administration loved the idea and got to work on setting Frederick up with a classroom and supplies. Frederick has now been teaching the class for three years. Each sixth grader has the opportunity to take it at least once, and students in seventh and eighth grade often ask to volunteer as teacher aides.
A Cup of Education
Each week includes a different cooking project. In addition to cake, students are tasked with making ice cream, pretzel bites, garlic breadsticks, doughnuts, and more. When they present their finished food, they’re asked to explain the cooking techniques they used, any substitutions they made, and why they think different outcomes happened.
One student, Grayden, says his favorite recipe was chicken pot pie “because it was fun to make and it tasted good. Like, really good!”
As their projects keep them engaged, students develop their working knowledge of measurements, ingredient ratios, chemical properties, and other scientific concepts.
A Pinch of Gratification
The class has been wildly successful at helping students learn what Frederick is teaching. How does she know? Because their parents frequently tell her all about the food their children now make.
“For example, one student will get off his games and make cookies for his family just because he enjoys it,” says Frederick. “They’re taking the lessons and pushing them past the walls of the school.”
During our visit, multiple students mentioned how much they enjoyed the class and how much they had learned. The experience illustrated yet again why MEC is proud to offer the Strengthening Schools program. By supporting forward-thinking projects and educational opportunities, we’re investing in our communities’ students and their futures.
Apply Now for a Strengthening Schools Grant
Katie Frederick used her Strengthening Schools Grant to invest in supplies and bulk items for her lessons. Are you looking for funds for your educational project, organization, or other classroom needs? We’re accepting applications!
Teachers, administrators, and school officials at public elementary, middle, or high schools serving students in our electric service territories are eligible. Visit teammidwest.com/school-grants for full details and to apply by Oct. 12.