This activity teaches children about yeast and how yeast uses things we eat, like sugar, to make the gas bubbles that make holes in our bread. The presenter will build an exciting visual demonstration of yeast making gas bubbles while talking about yeast, fermentation, and the history of bread making. Directions will be provided so students/families can set up the demonstration at home if they have the materials needed. The list of materials needed will be posted the day before so there is time to obtain them and set up the experiment. This session will be interactive: questions will be posed to participants and the activity will be led by a UC Berkeley CLEAR student.
To follow along at home, you’ll need:
- One package of active dry yeast (instant yeast works even faster!)
- One cup warm water – not too hot! (105-110 degrees F)
- Two tablespoons sugar
- Empty plastic or glass bottle
- One balloon
