Mrs. Brennan, Family & Consumer Science
Peacock Middle School
(630)773-1232, Ext. 2008
hbre...@itasca.k12.il.us

Grade 6- Introduction to Family & Consumer Science:

The course will include lessons and activities related to goal setting and decision-making, Child Care & Development, and an Introduction to Cooking.

The learning experience will include hands-on activities related to the importance of setting goals for oneself including short and long-term goals, and how the decisions we make can influence the outcomes of our goals.

The Child Care & Development portion of the class will include the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of an infant. The students will learn the responsibilities of baby-sitting, safety, and infant care.  Students will participate in the “Baby Think It Over” program, which includes caring for a computerized infant simulator.  The end of the course will include an introduction into cooking. The students will learn kitchen organization and equipment.

Course Outline

I.  Goal Setting and Decision Making

II. Child Development

III. Introduction to Cooking

Grade 7- Food and Nutrition:

This course is an introduction to the area of foods, nutrition, and an understanding of the basic principles of food preparation.  Students will develop an understanding of the food guide pyramid, food labels, food sanitation and preparation. 

The skills that the students develop will allow them to utilize the information gained in everyday application of food selection, preparation, and meal planning through lab experiences.

Course Outline

I.  Food Pyramid

II. Kitchen Mathematics

III. Cooking Techniques & Sanitation

Grade 8 Elective - Food Preparation and Money Management:

This is an elective course with the main focus on food preparation of different cultures.  Students will learn about cultures, customs, and cuisine.  The students will plan, purchase, and prepare a sit down meal for an annual Senior Citizen Luncheon. Focus will be on developing skills and abilities necessary in planning meals that are pleasing to the eye as well as stomach.  Table setting, decorations, and types of service will also be included. 

As class time permits students will also study money management. The emphasis will be on balancing a budget, and the differences between fixed and flexible income.

Course Outline

I.    Nutrition Review

II.   Culture and Cooking

IV.  Management of Time, Self, and Money

Grade 8 - Curriculum

Money, Media and You

This curriculum will focus on money management.  Students will learn how to manage their time, energy, and finances. Students will get a hands-on understanding of fixed and flexible expenses and learn how to budget and make wise consumer choices given an imaginary income.

Students will also be introduced to how media influences our culture.  The emphasis will be on decision-making and how to make sound decisions that are based on individual goals rather than the cultural influences that are portrayed.  Students will learn how to critique different forms of media by using critical thinking skills.

Course Outline

I.   Self-Management

a.    Time

b.    Energy

c.     Listening Skills

d.    Finances

e.    Fixed and Flexible expenses

f.      Savings

II.  Media Literacy

a.    Print media

b.    Electronic media

c.     News media

d.    Marketing

e.    Tobacco and Alcohol advertising

f.      Media critical questions