"How To" speeches

Today in Lily's class the students all gave a "how to" speech where they had to explain to their fellow pupils how to accomplish a task. I love this idea. First because it gives the kids a chance to work on their public speaking. Second because their self-esteem gets a boost after accomplishing such a project. And third because it teaches them the process of completing a project, where they have to think through each step.

The kids all chose things like how to tie a tie, make lemonade or a peanut butter & jelly sandwich. I can't wait to hear what other things the kids in her class did this afternoon.

Lily decided that she wanted to show he class how to make her favorite treat...popcorn balls with m&m's. No small task in my opinion but she was pretty insistent (she can be that way) so I caved.

Now we didn't have a stove or a hot plate after all this isn't the Today Show. So we did a few "swap outs". Here she is starting out -- explaining what she will be making and what ingredients are needed.

She did a great job explaining everything. I think she has a future on the Food Network. She even wore an apron because "you are suppose to when you are cooking".

The final step in the process is to share with your friends -- which she did . The popcorn balls were a hit with the second graders!

Here is the recipe in case you would like to make these tasty treats:

2 quarts popped popcorn
10 pkg large marshmallows
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1 cup m&m's

1. Put the popcorn in a large bowl and set aside.
2. In a medium sauce pan melt the marshmallows with the butter & brown sugar.
3. Pour the melted mixture on top of the popcorn and stir.
4. Add the m&m's
5. Butter your hands and for the popcorn into balls
6. Share with your friends!