Category: Team Building

43 Minute Lab Series: Individual Fruit Pizzas

After noticing continuous requests for lab suggestions that are doable in 43 minute class periods, I’ve decided to do a recurring series, featuring recipes that can be completed from beginning to end in a 43 minute time frame. In some cases, longer recipes will broken into two day labs. In addition, I will include my pre-lab review questions that pertain specifically to the recipe. This helps to ensure that students are reading the recipe. It also allows me time to show any videos that may demonstrate the product or specific techniques. So, without further ado, I present the 43 Minute Lab Series: Individual Fruit Pizzas!

Plant-Based Rummy Card Game

In my opinion, two heads are always better than one!  When Arlene DeJoy-Meckes of Twins & Teaching reached out about collaborating on an activity for plant
based diets, I was excited to collaborate! The Plant-Based Rummy Card Game is a free resource reinforcement activity and assessment that can be used when teaching about plant-based diets. Read on to see what we developed!

Clothing Influences

Think about your closet full of clothing…what prompted you to buy all of these items?  Our clothing decisions are often influences by a variety of things.  This lesson on Clothing Influences is a great way to explore what guides our choices when it comes to clothing. Use this as an intro lesson to your clothing or fashion course or unit or as a stand alone overview lesson in a comprehensive FACS class or middle school program when you need to explore various FACS content areas in a short period of time. Be sure to check out all of the engaging ideas as you continue to read this post!

Importance of Small Talk

There was a time when keeping students quiet was a challenge because all they wanted to do was talk! Now, not so much! Sadly, many students want to avoid
talking to you, their peers or anyone else at all costs. Importance of Small Talk is a great lesson to use with students at the beginning of the school year, new semester or even as part of a communication unit. Not only does this lesson give insight on the importance of small talk, but it encourages small talk among students and helps build relationships as they get to know each other! Continue reading to learn more…

FACS 5 Second Rule Games

The 5 Second Rule Game is a must have for my classroom! Not only can the game be played as is, but it’s easy to adapt to FACS content or even just use the time for quick, fun reviews. The rules pretty much stay the same for the “FACS: 5 Second Rule Games” which engage, challenge and build relationships as students compete against each other in this fun adaptation!

Project: I’m Bored!

Ever wonder how many parents over the years have heard the phrase “I’m Bored!” during the summer months from their child or children?  In this “Project: I’m Bored!”,
students research and curate activities to engage children of all age groups to not only prevent boredom, but help promote the developmental areas (PIES). This project is a great end of the year assignment or could even be used as a project for a substitute if you have to be out for day or two! Be sure to read on to learn more…

Ice Cream: STEAM Activities

Looking for something unique to do with your students as the school year winds down…or anytime, for that matter?  Ice Cream is a fun topic that most students
enjoy, especially on a hot day!   Ice Cream: STEAM Activities gives you a variety of options to explore with your students that will keep them engaged and enjoying a sweet treat!

Picky Eaters Lesson

Did you know there are six types of picky eaters?  I think we’ve all been exposed to at least one of them in our classrooms, especially when trying foods prepared in
the lab!  So, what’s a parent to do when they have a picky eater?  This Picky Eaters lesson has student groups exploring the six types and perform skits as they present the information on why it occurs and what parents can do.

The History & Science of Cream Puffs

I love teaching students how to make desserts that look elegant, but sound difficult! After learning about The History & Science of Cream Puffs, they are always surprised to learn how simple they are to actually make. Read on to learn how to incorporate this into your pastry or dessert unit.

Interactive Bulletin Boards for Child Development

When creating lesson plans and activities, one of my goals is to try to incorporate as much movement and hands-on engagement as possible. Not only do students
enjoy it, but it seems to pique their interest and gives them a little break from the screens. I love how Shannon Stevens, a FACS teacher from Ohio, does just that in her Interactive Bulletin Boards for Child Development project! Additionally, Shannon wanted to encourage the use of “soft skills” with her students and this project requires student teams to collaborate and communicate with each other as they create and finally provide feedback to other teams after class presentations. While this lesson focuses on child development, the interactive bulletin board concept can be applied in any content area. Read on to learn more…