1. Scientist study the mystery of popcorn: why does it jump and make noise?

2. Video - Slow motion popcorn popping

3. Vocabulary
endosperm- This is the starch that provides food (energy) for the living part of the kernel.
Zea mays everta – The scientific name for popcorn.
Celsius- Of or relating to a temperature scale that registers the freezing point of water as 0° and the boiling point as 100°.

4. Vocabulary
Fahrenheit- Of or relating to a temperature scale that registers the freezing point of water as 32°F and the boiling point as 212°F.
phenomenon- Something that is impressive or extraordinary.

5. Section – Why Does it Jump and Pop?
What is the scientific name for popcorn? How many types of corn kernels actually pop when heated?

6. Section – Thousands of Pictures
Explain step by step what happens to popcorn when it is heated?

7. Section - Look, Listen, Then Taste
Justify that the release of water vapor is the popping sound a kernel makes.

8. Discussion questions
Evaluate the scientists’ procedures for their experiment?
How would you improve their methods?

9. Summary Writing Assignment
Explain what makes a kernel jump and pop?
(Use 3 specific pieces of evidence from the article.)

10. Performance Task
If you were a scientist in charge of testing why some kernels do not pop? Explain how you set up and test your hypothesis.