Thanksgiving Lesson Plans
Thanksgiving lesson plans can lead to a discussion of nutrition, chemical compositions, and healthy habits.
By Kristen Kindoll
The Thanksgiving meal has been a success. Hours of endless preparations have led to satiated bellies. The sound of buttons popping is a sure sign that quite a few people are content. The dirty dishes are piled in the sink, and even a football game, may not keep people from succumbing to the over-riding need to take a brief nap. Overeating can be the culprit in this typical rite of post dinner passage. However, science has recently unearthed a more silent reason for the need to take a short respite after eating - tryptophan.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that can not be produced by human bodies. It is found in food, and by being combined with B-vitamin niacin, produces the chemical serotonin. This specific chemical is notable for its calming effects on the brain. It also plays a key role in the sleep process. TLC cooking has an explanation and visual depiction of the chemical process for referral.
Studying amino acids, and other chemicals, can be a way to work in the theme of Thanksgiving for older grades, specifically the high-school set. Yeast-A Dihybrid Cross identifies the genetic traits in yeast. It studies the type of yeast that is tryptophan dependent as opposed to the one that is not. Amino Acids discusses what the proteins are, and how they work with body systems and functions. Chicken eggs are studied and analyzed for their amino acid content.
As part of a Thanksgiving discussion, students can talk about the food pyramid and the steps to healthy eating. While the holidays may be a time to indulge, it can also be a time to eat well.
Thanksgiving Lesson Plans:
You At Your Best covers chronic and acute diseases, which result from a poor diet. Students analyze the nutrient content and nutritional balance of food.
Animal Adaptation: Focus on Bird Beaks has children explore bird beak adaptations. They compare beaks to food sources.
Sleep Central has students learn about rest and sleep. Conclusions are drawn for healthy and unhealthy sleep habits. Information is organized in a graph.
