Cookware and Food Preparation Tools

When purchasing new kitchen equipment, a number of factors should be considered. Have the students brainstorm a list of factors. Factors suggested in the curriculum guide include

• brand
• energy use (energy guides)
• uses
• materials used
• construction
• durability
• care
• storage
• price
• special features
• consumer testing

Cookware Evaluation Activity

Divide the students into group of three to five members. Using the list of factors, have each student in the group profile a different brand of the same piece of kitchen equipment. Students may find product information using a variety of sources including the manuals and warranties that accompany new products (check the foods lab, at home, or at local stores), the manufacturers, or on-line.

When the students have completed their profiles, the group members should discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each brand then decide which brand would be their first and second choices. The students must write up a thorough rationale for their choices and present their findings to the class.

Some related sites are listed below:

Consumer Warranties

http://www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/money/extended_warranties/

Cookware Safety

http://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheets/HGIC3864.htm

 

Using Kitchen Equipment Assignment

Kitchen equipment must be operated safely and cared for properly. Students often are not aware of how to handle many pieces of equipment, from electric mixers to microwave ovens, safely. To increase their awareness, small groups of students (2-3 persons) would create a brief instructional video which demonstrates and explains both how to safely use the equipment and how to care for it properly.

The assignment requirements:
     • documented research into the correct operation and proper care of the selected piece of equipment
     • written script for video
     • instructional video

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