Elect a Cookie
By Caroline Wyman
Students will vote on their favorite cookie based on the different criteria that each cookie presents. The students will learn about the cookies through observations, data and interviews. Grades K-2
First, talk briefly about the voting process and the presidential election. Be sure not go into great detail but go ahead and ask questions about voting.
Second, separate the class into cookie groups, one group will work with a chocolate chip cookie, another with an Oreo cookie, another with a sugar cookie and one more with an oatmeal cookie. Have each group collect data about the cookie that they will be representing. Have them describe the cookie, give the basic ingredients/make up of the cookie, then crumble the cookie, dunk the cookie in milk, and lastly taste the cookie. After the students have collected their data, a representative from each group will present the information about their cookie to the class. Make up a chart with all the comparable and contrasting information for each cookie. You can have the groups make posters that represent their cookie.
Finally, allow the class to sample the cookies after each person has presented their findings. Hand out voting cards that list all the cookie candidates. Have them sign their name and place a check mark by the cookie that they are voting for. Tally the votes and declare the winner. Have fun with this activity and compare the cookie election with the presidential election, what do they have in common, how do they differ.
Materials: A variety of cookies - including some for sampling, data sheets, milk, poster board, markers, and ballots.
Caroline Wyman has a degree in Sociology and a Masters in Elementary Education and is the administrator for TeacherNet.com.