In this reader students will learn what products are made from each part of the corn kernel including bioplastics and ethanol. To finish up the lesson students will conduct a corn science investigation by creating their own corn plastic.
This teachers guide is broken into different sections with suggestions of how to use the reader in the classroom and provide ideas on how to extend the learning of your students.
There are seven vocabulary words to be found throughout the reader. They are bolded with a small explanation to help define the word. Print the vocabulary worksheet. Students can use the worksheet to learn more about the words that will be used throughout the reader.
Page two highlights the uses of corn and how different parts of the kernel are used for different products. Using the information on the page, create a visual that can be used for the classroom by doing the following:
“The Many Uses of Corn” poster found via the QR code can be projected on a screen for the entire classroom to see. You can use the corn comprehension questions as an assignment or to spark discussion.
Page three focuses on ethanol, from how it is produced to the possible careers it has to offer. The Renewable Fuels Association provides a virtual road trip. The included activity sheet can be used to go over the different aspects of ethanol.
On page four, the Corn Science Investigation provides a hands-on activity and allows for discussion about renewable and nonrenewable resources. It gives students the opportunity to talk about human activity, the impact and take the investigation further learning about ocean pollution of petroleum-based plastics. Students can also create a C.E.R. claim for how corn plastics may be more beneficial to our environment.
Ethanol and Its Role in Agriculture
Ethanol is a type of alcohol that is commonly used as a biofuel, which means it is made from renewable sources like plants. The most common plant used to make ethanol is corn, especially a variety known as dent corn. Ethanol is created by fermenting the sugars found in corn, turning them into alcohol. This process is similar to how yeast makes alcohol in bread. Once produced, ethanol can be mixed with gasoline to create a cleaner fuel for cars, reducing the amount of harmful gases released into the air. Using ethanol as a fuel helps decrease our dependence on nonrenewable fossil fuels like oil and coal. By using crops like corn to make ethanol, we can support sustainable farming practices and reduce pollution, making it an important part of a greener future.
Hands-On Activity Options
Additional guide extensions comparing bio and petroleum based plastic with an engineering and design component:
This lesson is the work product of the Kansas Corn Commission. Our lessons are written in collaboration with Kansas teachers for use in the classroom. Teachers may copy and share this curriculum. Use of this product for commercial or promotional use is prohibited without express permission of Kansas Corn.
As the need to produce more food with less resources grows, it is important that future generations have a better understanding of agriculture and how corn farming and agriculture fit into our daily lives. That’s why the Kansas Corn STEM program provides lessons to teach science through the lens of corn. We are committed to providing free materials and training to support educators.
