Help me give my students a fun learning experience exploring science concepts, such as chemistry and physics, through observing and experimenting with changes in popcorn, like popping and texture transformations.
FULLY FUNDED! Dr. Joiner's classroom raised $179
This project is fully funded
Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month
This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Project
Our Popcorn Palooza project explores the fascinating science behind popcorn. The process of popping popcorn involves a combination of chemical and physical changes that are both intriguing and educational. When we heat up a popcorn kernel, the water inside the starch turns into steam, building up pressure until the kernel explodes into a fluffy piece of popcorn. This is an example of a physical change, where the kernel changes shape and form, but the chemical composition remains the same.
The starches in the kernel undergo a process called gelatinization, where they break down and reorganize into a new compound.
This chemical reaction is responsible for the fluffy texture of popcorn and is an example of a chemical change, where the molecular structure of the kernel is altered. The heat energy from the stove or microwave causes the molecules in the kernel to vibrate rapidly, breaking the bonds between them and allowing them to reorganize into a new structure.
As we mix the popped popcorn with a special syrup made from sugar, corn syrup, and water to create popcorn balls, we're also observing the science of viscosity and adhesion. The syrup's thickness and flow affect how easily we can shape the popcorn mixture into balls, and the adhesive properties of the syrup help the popcorn kernels stick together, creating a strong and stable ball. The syrup's viscosity is influenced by the ratio of sugar to water, with higher concentrations of sugar resulting in a thicker, more viscous syrup. This is an example of a physical property, where the syrup's behavior is determined by its composition and molecular structure. Through hands-on experimentation and observation, we can gain a deeper understanding of the chemical and physical changes that occur in popcorn, and develop a greater appreciation for the science that underlies this everyday phenomenon.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
432 Pcs Circus Party Decorations Set Carnival Circus Balloon Garland Arch Kit Table Skirts 3 Tier Cupcake Stand Cupcake Wrappers Popcorn Boxes for Carnival Circus Birthday Halloween Party Decoration
• Amazon Business
$28.99
1
$28.99
Corn Syrup 16 oz
• Carolina Biological Supply Company
$7.16
4
$28.64
Measuring Tapes - Set of 12
• Lakeshore Learning Materials
$8.99
2
$17.98
Measuring Cup - 8 oz.
• Kaplan Early Learning Company
$2.66
6
$15.96
Perfect Stix Gordon choice DeliWaxPaper10-500 Deli Wax Paper, 10" x 10.75", Plain (Pack of 500)
• Amazon Business
$15.80
1
$15.80
Teling 100 Pcs Popcorn Bags for Party, Popcorn Treat Bags Set, 100 Pcs Candy Bags Red White Stripe Cookie Snacks Bags with 150 Red Twist Ties for Circus Carnival Birthday Party Favor(Strip Style)
• Amazon Business
$7.69
1
$7.69
Materials cost
$115.06
Vendor shipping charges
$4.62
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$1.73
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$151.41
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$26.72
Total project goal
$178.13
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$178.13
2 Donors
-$175.63
Donations toward project cost
-$149.29
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
-$26.34
match offer
-$2.50
Match offer toward project cost
-$2.12
Match offer to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Dr. Joiner and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
