Case Studies

Molecular Gastronomy in the Science Classroom

The recent STEM and NGSS initiatives have encouraged educators to create innovative and engaging teaching methods to bring some excitement to learning science into the classroom. One approach, explored by high school students at DeWolf in Fresno Unified, was through the integration of Molecular Gastronomy in Chemistry.

This is a unique, cutting-edge culinary discipline that pushes the boundaries of food preparation and the science behind food. Through the Molecular Gastronomy in the Science Classroom project students engaged in activities, such as a Spherification Lab, which teaches students how to create different types of spheres using spherification techniques using sodium alginate and calcium chloride. They also experimented with various flavors and liquids, with the opportunity to create flavored caviar-like spheres or larger spheres, like Boba, with liquid centers. Other activities included a Foam Formation Lab, Gelification Lab, Emulsification Lab, Texture Modification Lab, and a Molecular Mixology Lab.

Academic Year
2023-24