Welcome to Lakeview Consumer Education

Wise Consumers

2012-02-17T15:00:00.001-06:00

The sixth grade students discussed how to be smart shoppers and discovered the importance of reading nutrition facts' labels on food packages.

Students also learned about shopping for value. What do you buy most in a grocery store? It's not just food. Many of our dollars are spent for slicing, dicing, portioning, and packaging. We watched a video which illustrated how much "extra" we pay when we buy processed foods. The sixth grade students were able to share strategies to use to avoid many pitfalls when shopping for food.

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

What did you eat for breakfast?

2012-02-10T13:36:00.000-06:00

We continued our Nutrition Unit this week by discussing daily food choices and the importance of eating breakfast every morning. Students worked with a partner to plan a healthy breakfast menu that included food choices from at least three of the food groups. I was pleased to see how many students eat breakfast every day. Studies have shown that "students that eat breakfast do much better in school than the breakfast-skippers". I still need to encourage a few non-believers.

Our cooking lab this week was a great example of how easy it is to make and eat a healthy snack. The students were able to prepare and eat Fruit and Cheese Kabobs with Cinnamon Yogurt Dip in one class period. Students measured accurately and worked together efficiently; the result was a very successful lab. I was very impressed with the great effort each class put forth. Nice job!

Have a nice weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Is baking a science or an art?

2012-02-03T13:39:00.000-06:00

Our lab for the week was Wacky Chocolate Cake. The students made their cakes and baked them on the first day of the lab. They discovered that the recipe involved a chemical reaction with vinegar and baking soda. There were no eggs in the recipe and yet the cake turned out tender and moist!

On the second day of the lab the students made their own Butter Icing and devoured the cake. A few students shared some of the cake with their teachers. It was a big hit!

We began a preview of our nutrition unit by investigating new vocabulary words. These included nutrients, carbohydrates, fiber, cholesterol, proteins, amino acids, and osteoporosis. Students used concept maps and worked in groups to predict meanings and connections to vocabulary words. After reading and discussing the chapter on “Meet the Nutrients” each student completed a "word detective" activity sheet and then discussed the findings with a lab partner.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Muffin Time!

2012-01-27T13:32:00.002-06:00

The second foods' lab for the 6th grade students went very well. We made Chocolate Chip Muffins. The recipe had many ingredients and the hosts did a great job measuring everything. Kitchen clean-up went off without a hitch, too. This was a two day lab; the students prepared the batter and baked the muffins on the first day and ate the muffins on the second day. My compliments to the chefs! The students raved about their creations and devoured every bite.

We also spent time learning about table manners and social conduct. The 6th grade students had the opportunity to learn about proper table manners from the experts after watching our “Etiquette Hotline” video. I am sure they have been using all of the good table manners they learned about in class.
I hope you stay warm this weekend.

Our first lab was successful!

2012-01-20T14:00:00.000-06:00

The first cooking lab for the 6th grade students went very well this week. The students made creamy caramel apple dip which they served with Granny Smith apples. The students followed the recipe instructions quite well. Several kitchen labs completed clean up on time! I am sure the other groups will improve next week!

I was impressed with how well the students worked with their lab partners. It will take time for them to feel comfortable with all of the new lab procedures here at Lakeview, but I am sure they are up for the task.

Have a nice weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Safety First!

2012-01-13T13:30:00.000-06:00

The 6th grade students had a busy week. The students spent the week reviewing kitchen safety as well as food safety and sanitation in Consumer Education class.

Each class made Kitchen Safety posters to illustrate safe procedures to follow. The students did a nice job illustrating ways to prevent cuts, burns, fires, falls, and electrical shocks.

I am happy to announce that the grades from our quiz on Friday were exceptional. The students will get their quizzes back on Tuesday. Our first lab is next week.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

The Sixth Grade Students Haven't Missed a Beat!

2012-01-06T15:00:00.000-06:00

Everyone came back from break energized and ready to go. I hope it means that winter break was relaxing. I enjoyed spending time with my family and friends during break.

We spent this week in Consumer Education learning about kitchen safety and equipment. Ask your child some of the procedures they will need to follow to prevent cuts, burns, spills, falls, fires, and electric shocks. I was impressed with the students' knowledge of safe work habits.

The students are becoming familiar with the kitchen equipment and utensils they will be using to measure ingredients and prepare food. Our first foods' lab is around the corner. I know the students are excited!

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

More sewing!

2011-12-16T15:00:00.000-06:00

The sixth graders have continued sewing this week. They didn't stop with just a button. Each student selected a pattern design of their choice and used their newly acquired hand-sewing skills to sew a miniature pillow or ornament. The students are using felt and embroidery floss to complete their projects.

The students were very creative in their design choices. They have been using the "back stitch" and blanket stitch" to sew their pillows.

Have a wonderful winter break!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Sew...a needle pulling thread!

2011-12-09T14:15:00.000-06:00

After discussing clothing care and various laundry tips the students were able to identify appropriate clothing care practices to follow at home. Most of the 6th graders told me that they do help out with laundry chores. The students also figured out how to sort clothes according to color, degree of soil and fabric construction. It was fun to see how excited the students were about doing laundry.

We ended the week with sewing on buttons. Each class period learned how to sew on a button on Thursday and most of the students were able to complete sewing on their own button on Friday.

Have a great weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Getting Acquainted!

2011-12-01T15:00:00.000-06:00

It has been great getting to know all of the sixth grade students. They are very energetic and raring to go. They have done a nice job in class this week. We spent time completing several "getting to know you" activities. We also discussed procedures and expectations for Consumer Education.

The students discussed personal qualities that they look for in a friend and were able to select their own "star" qualities to put on a banner in class. Nice job!

Have a nice weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Welcome Sixth Graders!

2011-11-22T15:00:00.001-06:00

I am including a copy of the parent letter that I handed out on Monday. Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Dear Parents,

I am the Consumer Education teacher here at Lakeview Junior High School. This is my eighth year teaching Consumer Education. I graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor's degree in Home Economics and received my Master's degree and teaching certificate from Northern Illinois University. I am delighted to be teaching here at Lakeview.

Mrs. Judy Bretl
Consumer Education Teacher
Phone: (630) 783-5034
Email: jbretl@ccsd66.org

Consumer Education is a Family and Consumer Science course designed to help middle school students learn the life skills they need to be responsible, productive family and community members.

The units of study for your sixth grader include:
Nutrition
Kitchen Safety and Sanitation
Food Preparation
Consumer Awareness
Babysitting Safety
Clothing Care and Laundry Tips
Sewing Skills

Most of our coursework will be done in class. We will have very little homework due to the “hands-on” nature of our labs. Your child will use the textbook Discovering Food and Nutrition in class. If necessary, students may check out a textbook from me in order to make up work. I am available before school each morning at 7:35 a.m. and during study hall “B”.

There are many consumable materials used in this class. To help defer the cost of the consumable material, a $15.00 lab fee is necessary. Please pay the lab fee within the first week of class. Checks may be made payable to District 66. We prefer a check, but will accept cash. For cash payment, please put in an envelope with your child's name on it.

Lab fee due date: Tuesday, November 29.

I am looking forward to an exciting trimester working with your child.

Sincerely,

Mrs. J. Bretl

Value Shopping

2011-11-18T15:00:00.000-06:00

The last week of the trimester was quite busy. The 8th grade students became familiar with several small appliances that are used in food preparation every day. They examined the crock pot, bread maker, waffle maker, and blender. Students were able to determine how to use the appliances, how to clean them and why consumers choose to use these appliances.

Students also learned about shopping for value. What do you buy most in a grocery store? It's not just food. Most of your dollars are spent for slicing, dicing, portioning, and packaging. We watched a video which illustrated how much "extra" we pay when we buy processed foods. The 8th grade students were able to share strategies to use to avoid many pitfalls when shopping for food.

This has been a great trimester with the 8th grade students! I will miss you!

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

What a fabulous meal!

2011-11-10T15:00:00.000-06:00

The 8th grade students prepared quite a feast this week. They did a fine job peeling, coring, paring, cutting, chopping, mixing, baking, tossing, stirring, and unmolding strawberry delight jello, taco salad, cheesy potato casserole and apple crisp.

The students used all of the skills they have acquired this trimester to prepare this well-balanced meal. I hope they will share some of their talents with you. You may get a night off of kitchen duty.

Enjoy your weekend!

Mrs. Bretl

Tortilla Roll Ups!

2011-11-04T15:00:00.001-05:00

This week the 8th grade students discussed how snacks fit into a healthful eating plan. They were able to determine strategies to use to avoid making poor snack choices.

Our lab for the week was Tortilla Roll-Ups. Each class did a great job with preparation and clean up this week. It is hard to believe we are nearing the end of the trimester.

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Brownies are the best bar cookie!

2011-10-28T15:00:00.001-05:00

The students learned about the six basic types of cookies this week. They discovered that the main difference in cookies is in the way they are shaped or the type of dough used in the recipe.

Our lab this week involved making brownies from scratch! The eighth grade students made the brownies and baked them one day and ate them the next day. It was quite interesting to see how different each batch of brownies turned out. Be sure to ask your child if their brownies were chewy, gooey, or crunchy. It is all in the measuring!

Each student made a Halloween-themed stencil and used it to sprinkle powdered sugar on their brownie. What fun!

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,

Mrs. J. Bretl

Create Your Own Pizza

2011-10-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

This week the 8th grade students were able to design their own pizzas. Each lab worked together to create an original pizza recipe. The students needed to include foods from several food groups in their pizza without repeating ingredients. Each group presented their favorite pizza recipe to the class and the class voted for their top choice.

All of the classes did a fine job creating unique pizza recipes. The students used a variety of resources to come up with the right ingredients and amounts needed for each pizza.

The students were very pleased with their creations. I must admit that the pizza recipes turned out very well. Nice job!

Have a nice weekend!

Mrs. J. Bretl

Pizza!

2011-10-14T15:00:00.000-05:00

Now that the 8th grade students have several foods' labs behind them things are settling down a bit. Each class was able to get their pizza lab completed on time. The students also did very well with clean up tasks this week.

We made cheese pizza in our lab this week. The students did a nice job making the dough and assembling the pizzas. I was impressed with how well the pizza crusts turned out. The students also did a fine job consuming their pizzas.

Have a good weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

MMMmmm Cinnamon!

2011-10-07T15:00:00.002-05:00

Our lab was quite successful this week. The students made Cinnamon
Pull-Apart Rolls. The hallways were filled with their sweet aroma.
MMMM MMMM! The students put forth great effort in planning the lab and
following directions. The Cinnamon Pull-Apart Rolls turned out great!
I hope they will share the recipe with you.

We slso reviewed the principles of baking this week. The students
identified the seven categories of ingredients commonly used in baked goods.
They were able to analyze recipe ingredients based on this information.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Oatmeal Cookies!

2011-09-30T15:00:00.001-05:00

Our lab for the week was Easy Oatmeal Cookies. The students worked well with their lab partners and had successful lab results. We went over several "Cool Tools" for our Consumer Education labs and the students were given the opportunity to describe dishwashing techniques and proper clean up procedures. It is amazing how well each class performed when it was time for the real clean up during their cookie lab. Nice job!

We reviewed good manners and appropriate table etiquette this week. The 8th grade students seem to be well versed in this area. They did a nice job brainstorming the good manners that they use everyday. I am sure that they practice these same good manners at home, too.

Have a nice weekend.

Mrs. J. Bretl

First Lab!

2011-09-23T15:00:00.000-05:00

The first cooking lab for the 8th grade students went very well this week. The students made creamy caramel apple dip which they served with Granny Smith apples. I was very impressed with how well they worked with their lab partners.

The students did a nice job with kitchen safety and lab procedures. Most of the class periods will need to work more efficiently with clean up. I am sure that will get better with each lab.

The 8th grade golf field trip was Friday of this week, too. What fun! It was a gorgeous day!

Hope you have a nice weekend.

Mrs. J. Bretl

Safety First!

2011-09-16T15:00:00.000-05:00

It was nice to see so many parents at Open House Monday night. I hope you enjoyed your tour of the Consumer Education classroom.

The 8th grade students completed a short review of kitchen safety, kitchen equipment and measuring techniques this week. The review was especially beneficial to those students that have not been in Consumer Education class since sixth grade. Our first lab will take place next week. The 8th graders are ready to cook!

The students did very well on their quizzes today. I will let them know their scores next week.

Have a relaxing weekend.
Mrs. J. Bretl

Managing Money!

2011-09-09T11:00:00.001-05:00

I have found that the 8th grade students love money. They love to spend money, they love to earn money and many of them love to save money! It was quite exciting to hear how many students save part of their allowance or their earned income each week. In discussing money matters this week students were able to determine the importance of setting goals when planning for the future.

The 8th grade students worked on their personal budget plans this week. They estimated how much money they spend each month on food, clothes and entertainment. The students used grocery advertisements from the newspaper to find food prices. It was nice to see students make smart choices when planning their food purchases.

Students determined how much they could earn in one month and then planned a purchase with the money they had saved. Many students decided that they needed to save money for more than a month to make a special purchase.

We will be reviewing kitchen safety, equipment and measuring techniques next week. Our first cooking lab will take place the week of September 19.

Enjoy your weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Bretl

Getting Reacquainted!

2011-09-02T15:00:00.001-05:00

Our first trimester is in full swing and the 8th grade students are already working hard! We have been doing a few "getting reacquainted" activities this week. The eighth graders created a "Wall of Fame" poster in class this week. I have asked them to collect some photos and magazine pictures for this project.

The students utilized a "Think-Pair-Share" discussion strategy on Friday as we brainstormed vocabulary for our Money Management unit in Consumer Education.

I am learning many interesting things about each student. It is quite evident that all of the 8th grade students are ready for a great year. Their enthusiasm is very refreshing!

Enjoy your weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Getting ready for a great year!

2011-08-22T15:00:00.004-05:00

I am the Consumer Education teacher here at Lakeview Junior High School. This is my tenth year teaching Consumer Education. I graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor's degree in Home Economics and received my Master's degree and teaching certificate from Northern Illinois University. I am delighted to be teaching here at Lakeview.

Mrs. Judy Bretl
Consumer Education Teacher
Phone: (630) 783-5034
Email: jbretl@ccsd66.org

Consumer Education is a Family and Consumer Science course designed to help middle school students learn the life skills they need to be responsible, productive family and community members.

The units of study for your eighth grader include:
Nutrition
Kitchen Safety and Sanitation
Food Preparation
Consumer Awareness and Money Management
Budgeting and Comparison Shopping
Sewing Skills

Most of our coursework will be done in class. We will have very little homework due to the “hands-on” nature of our labs. Your child will use the textbook Discovering Food and Nutrition in class. If necessary, students may check out a textbook from me in order to make up work. I am available before school each morning and during study hall.

There are many consumable materials used in this class. To help defer the cost of the consumable material, a $15.00 lab fee is necessary. Please pay the lab fee within the first week of class. Checks may be made payable to District 66. We prefer a check, but will accept cash. For cash payment, please put in an envelope with your child's name on it.

I am looking forward to an exciting trimester working with your child. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Saving The Best For Last!

2011-06-03T14:11:00.003-05:00

We had quite a whirlwind week in the Consumer Education classroom. The students made their own "ice cream in a bag" for their last lab. I think some of the students' hands froze before their bags of ice cream froze.

The 7th grade students also spent one class figuring out the differences between air-popped popcorn and microwave popcorn. They had fun determining which popcorn made the most and which had the "first pop". The air-popper won!

We ended the week with WOW Day for the 6th and 7th grade students. It was simply amazing! I enjoyed seeing the creative plans in action. WOW!

Have a great weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Pizza Pizza!

2011-05-27T15:11:00.002-05:00

The lab for Consumer Education this week was Tomato Basil Pizza! The students did a nice job working cooperatively with their lab partners. The fabulous pizzas were proof of their great work.

It is hard to believe that we have just one full week of school left. I am looking forward to Summer School Cooking classes.

Have a nice long weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Chicken Quesadillas!

2011-05-18T12:43:00.004-05:00

We spent time discussing healthy snacks this week. The seventh grade students discovered how they can use their nutrition knowledge and consumer skills to choose healthful snacks to eat.

Our foods' lab for the week was Chicken Quesadillas. The students completed the lab with ease. I was impressed with how well they worked together.

Have a nice weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Bountiful Brunch Pizza!

2011-05-13T11:30:00.000-05:00

The 7th Grade students spent time discovering the purpose of ingredients in baking this week. They also learned about the differences between quick breads and yeast breads.

The foods' lab for Consumer Education this week was Bountiful Brunch Pizza. The students used a quick bread crust for their hearty breakfast pizzas and then topped them with their favorite omelet ingredients. Their creations were delicious!

Nice job!

Have a nice weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Macaroni and Cheese Please!

2011-05-06T15:00:00.003-05:00

The 7th grade students made one of their favorite one-dish meals this week.
Macaroni and cheese! They even discussed how nutritious it can be. Students also determined that one-dish mixtures are convenient and economical entrees to make.

The students worked well together and had successful lab results.
Nice job!

Have a nice weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Muffin Time!

2011-04-29T14:11:00.002-05:00

The seventh grade students worked very well together on their lab this week. They were quite busy making Cinnamon Muffins and Fruit Smoothies. The pleasant aroma of cinnamon filled the hallways. I am pleased to announce that every lab had successful results. The students also made improvements in their dishwashing tasks this week.

The students completed their labs on Tuesday and Wednesday so the students involved in the Band Trip to Gatlinburg would not miss out.

I could tell that the students were very proud of themselves. They were all willing to help each other out. Nice job!

Fruit and Cheese Kabobs!

2011-04-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

The Seventh Grade students made Fruit and Cheese Kabobs with Yogurt Dip in Consumer Education this week. What a difference one week makes! The students did a great job with lab clean up.

We also discussed microwave techniques and safety this week. The students had a few "horror stories" to share regarding microwave cooking. I am so glad that we haven't had any mishaps in our labs.

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Manners Do Matter!

2011-04-15T08:45:00.001-05:00

We reviewed good manners and appropriate table etiquette this week. The students seem to be well versed in this area. They did a nice job brainstorming the good manners that they use everyday. I am sure that they practice these good manners at home, too. Most students shared the fact that they learned many of their good manners at home when they were small. Nice job parents!

We completed our first lab for the trimester! The seventh grade students made Individual Apple Crisps this week. The students worked well with their lab partners and had successful lab results. They need to work more efficiently while washing dishes. I know they will improve with practice.

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Rested , refreshed and ready for labs!

2011-04-08T11:20:00.002-05:00

The seventh grade students came back from Spring Break ready to work. We spent the week reviewing kitchen safety and measuring techniques. The students did a nice job completing their study guides as a review. Each class had the chance to play "Kitchen Safety Jeopardy" on our Mimio Board to help them study for the Kitchen Safety Quiz!

I am happy to announce that the grades from our quiz today were exceptionally good! The students will get their quizzes back on Monday. Our first lab is next week!

Enjoy the weekend!
Mrs. J. Bretl

Safety First!

2011-03-25T12:30:00.000-05:00

The 7th grade students completed a short review of kitchen safety and kitchen equipment this week. The review was especially beneficial to those students that were not in Consumer Education class last year. We will review measuring techniques the week after Spring Break.

Our Kitchen Safety Quiz will be on Friday, April 8. The first lab will take place the week of April 11. The 7th graders are ready to cook!

Have a wonderful Spring Break!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Advertising Techniques

2011-03-18T13:38:00.004-05:00

The 7th grade students continued their discussion of jobs; specifically careers in the field of Family and Consumer Science. We watched a video showing a typical morning routine in the "not too distant future" titled, "A Day Made of Glass". I am including a link to this website provided by the Corning Corporation.

Students also worked with a partner to analyze advertisements from local newspapers and magazines. They listed the persuasive techniques used in each advertisement. The students did a fine job with their "Mimio" activity on "cracking the advertising code". Each class worked on a team and determined which advertising ploy was being used to sell a particular product. The students became familiar with bandwagon, snob appeal, humor, unproven claims, emotional appeal, urgency, celebrity endorsement and lifestyle advertising techniques.

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Jobs For Seventh Graders!

2011-03-11T07:59:00.004-06:00

The 7th grade students watched a video on "Being a Wise Consumer" in class this week. They discussed the smart steps to follow when planning a purchase, making a purchase and evaluating their decisions.

After discussing how much money middle school students spend every week the 7th graders determined that it would be wise for them to earn some money of their own.

We discussed jobs that would be appropriate. Most of these jobs were service oriented; babysitting, lawn mowing, snow shoveling and pet sitting. We went on to discuss qualifications, fees, work schedules and other important factors to consider when starting a business venture.

The students worked in the IMC and used Publisher to complete a "job brochure" to promote their business. I was impressed with the students' effort and creativity!
Nice job!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Welcome Seventh Graders!

2011-02-25T13:48:00.002-06:00

Dear Parents,

I am the Consumer Education teacher here at Lakeview Junior High School. This is my ninth year teaching Consumer Education. I graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor's degree in Home Economics and received my Master's degree and teaching certificate from Northern Illinois University. I am delighted to be teaching here at Lakeview.

Mrs. Judy Bretl
Consumer Education Teacher
Phone: (630) 783-5034
Email: jbretl@ccsd66.org

Consumer Education is a Family and Consumer Science course designed to help middle school students learn the life skills they need to be responsible, productive family and community members.

The units of study for your seventh grader include:
Kitchen Safety and Sanitation
Food Preparation
Recipe Math
Nutrition and Health Concerns
Consumer Skills
Careers
Sewing Skills

Most of our coursework will be done in class. We will have very little homework due to the “hands-on” nature of our labs. Your child will use the textbook Discovering Food and Nutrition in class. If necessary, students may check out a textbook from me in order to make up work. I am available before school each morning and during study hall “B”.

There are many consumable materials used in this class. To help defer the cost of the consumable material, a $20.00 lab fee is necessary. Please pay the lab fee within the first week of class. Checks may be made payable to District 66. We prefer a check, but will accept cash. For cash payment, please put in an envelope with your child's name on it.

I am looking forward to an exciting trimester working with your child. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Mrs. J. Bretl

It is so hard to believe that we have started our last trimester for this school year! It has been great getting reaquainted with last year's 6th graders. It is fun seeing how they have grown and matured. They tell me they are ready to begin cooking. I told them that we will need to review a few things first. We will need to go over kitchen safety, measuring techniques, and equipment before we start our lab work. I know they will be able to make it.

Enjoy your weekend!

Reading About Nutrition Facts

2011-02-18T12:38:00.004-06:00

The 6th grade students prepared a Fried Rice Recipe in Consumer Education this week in celebration of Chinese New Year. I heard some students share the fact that this was their favorite lab. I could tell that the students were quite proud of themselves. There were several tedious tasks involved in making the recipe and the students worked extremely well together. Nice job!

The sixth grade students also discussed how to be smart shoppers and discovered the importance of reading nutrition facts' labels on food packages. They worked with a partner to compare nutrition facts from cereal boxes; determining the cereal with the best nutritional value. They completed their comparisons on a graphic organizer and then used the information to create a new cereal. The students were very creative in designing the covers, selecting names, listing ingredients and nutrients for their new cereal boxes. We will finish this activity on Tuesday.

Have a great weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Making Healthy Choices

2011-02-11T11:50:00.001-06:00

We are continuing with our Nutrition Unit this week. We have been discussing the importance of making healthy food choices. Students brainstormed various strategies they could use to ensure that they are eating a variety of foods (especially fruits and vegetables) each day.

We spent time in the IMC this week in order to learn more about making healthy food choices. Students were able to plan a healthy day of eating and then program their choices into the "food tracker" on the USDA My Pyramid website. Students were able to analyze their food intake and determine where they needed to make adjustments. I have included a link to this site for you.

Our lab for the week was a BLT Wrap. The sixth grade students cooked bacon in the microwave and them added it to their lettuce, tomato, and cheese salad mixture. Each student used a flour tortilla to "wrap it up". The students devoured their BLT Wraps in record time.

Stay warm!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Snow, snow, and more snow!

2011-02-03T08:44:00.002-06:00

It was nice to be able to stay warm and safe in my home the last two days. My dog was happy to be able to run around in the snowy backyard. It took my husband a long time to dig us out on Wednesday!

Stay warm!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Start Off With A Good Breakfast!

2011-01-28T11:30:00.000-06:00

Our cooking lab this week was a great example of how easy it is to make and eat a healthy breakfast. The students were able to prepare and eat Healthy Breakfast Quesadillas and Orange Smoothies in one class period. Students measured accurately and worked together efficiently; the result was a very successful lab. I was very impressed with the great effort each class put forth. Nice job!

We started our Nutrition Unit this week by discussing daily food choices and the importance of eating breakfast every morning. Students worked with a partner to plan a healthy breakfast menu that included food choices from at least three of the food groups. I was pleased to see how many students eat breakfast every day. Studies have shown that "students that eat breakfast do much better in school than the breakfast-skippers". I still need to encourage a few nonbelievers.

Enjoy the weekend.

Mrs. J. Bretl

Prevent Kitchen Accidents

2010-12-17T12:34:00.003-06:00

The 6th grade students learned about Kitchen Safety this week. They were able to identify safety hazards in the kitchen and ways to prevent specific kitchen accidents. The students did a great job brainstorming safety procedures. They worked with a partner in making a kitchen safety poster.

We will learn about kitchen equipment and measuring techniques after winter break.

Our first lab will take place the week of January 10th. The 6th graders are ready to cook!

Happy Holidays!

Mrs. J. Bretl

Short and sweet!

2010-11-23T15:00:00.000-06:00

What a fast week! We started on Monday and finished on Tuesday. The 6th graders really enjoyed our special assemblies on Tuesday. We started out with an upbeat performance by the Jesse White Tumblers. They did a fabulous job. Our end of the day assembly was just as fun. The volleyball games were enjoyed by all.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mrs. J. Bretl

Pizza Pizza!

2010-10-15T15:00:00.000-05:00

Now that the 8th grade students have several foods' labs behind them things are settling down a bit. Each class was able to get the lab completed on time. The students also did well with their clean up tasks this week.

We made cheese pizza in our lab this week. The students did a great job making the dough and assembling the pizzas. I was impressed with how well the pizza crusts turned out. The students also did a fine job consuming their pizzas.

Have a good weekend.

Mrs. J. Bretl

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream!

2010-05-27T13:00:00.000-05:00

This was quite a fun-filled week. All of the seventh grade students made Oreo Cookie Ice Cream in our Consumer Education Lab. Most of the lab groups have gotten to eat their ice cream already.

The students couldn't believe how easy it was to make the recipe. They were very proud of themselves. I must admit it did taste yummy. Several teachers were able to be taste testers along with me.

The seventh graders will be bringing their recipe packets home this week. I hope they continue to cook at home during the summer.

Enjoy your weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Strawberry Jello and Tater Tot Casserole!

2010-05-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

It was easy to tell that the lab this week was a huge success. The students completed their two-day lab by making Tater Tot Casserole and Strawberry Fruit Delight Jello Rings. Each lab group made one of the recipes and the food was served buffet style. There were no leftovers! I hope the students get a chance to make these at home sometime. The lab results were spectacular!

The students also spent time this week learning how salads fit into a healthy eating plan. They discovered various ways to put salads together; mixed or tossed, arranged in an attractive pattern, or molded in a decorative container.

Have an enjoyable weekend.

Eat your veggies!

2010-05-07T13:48:00.000-05:00

We continued our discussion on nutrition and the benefits of eating ample fruits and vegetables each day. The students investigated the various nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. They were able to make connections with the roles these nutrients play in keeping our bodies healthy. Students used cookbooks to find recipes with many healthy fruits and vegetables.
Our lab this week followed suit; we made fresh fruit kabobs with yogurt dip and taco salad wraps. Each kitchen lab made one of the recipes and shared the food with another kitchen so the students were able to taste both recipes. The results were quite successful. The students worked extremely well this week and were able to complete many tasks in a short amount of time. Nice job!

Enjoy your weekend.

Let Them Eat Cake!

2010-04-30T13:42:00.000-05:00

Our lab for the week was Wacky Chocolate Cake. The 7th grade students made the cake and baked it on the first day of the lab. They discovered that the recipe involved a chemical reaction with vinegar and baking soda. On the second day of the lab the students made their own Butter Icing and devoured the cake.

A few students shared some of the cake with their teachers. It was a big hit! The band students were able to have their cake and eat it too!

Have a great weekend!

Mrs. J. Bretl

Muffin Time!

2010-04-23T13:50:00.000-05:00

The seventh grade students worked very well together on their second lab this week. They were quite busy making Cinnamon Muffins. The pleasant aroma of cinnamon filled the hallways on Wednesday and Friday. I am pleased to announce that every lab had successful results. The students also improved in their dishwashing tasks this week.

I could tell that the students were very proud of themselves. They were all willing to help each other out. Nice job!

Enjoy your weekend.

Mrs. J. Bretl

SNOWFLAKE 2010!

2010-03-21T18:54:00.000-05:00

It was great to be a part of Snowflake at Lakeview Junior High School Saturday, March 20th. I met some new friends, learned a few new things about myself and also learned how to make the awesome "warm fuzzy" necklace that every participant proudly wore. Thanks Pete! Pete, Barb and Katie were the high school leaders for our small group. They did a wonderful job leading our group discussions and coordinating our large group activities in the gym. It sounds as though many of the students that attended Snowflake are ready to come back for more.
What a fun day!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Saving the best for last!

2010-02-26T13:25:00.000-06:00

This week marked the last cooking lab for the sixth grade students. Their cheese pizzas were a huge success! The sixth grade students worked very well together to complete their Cheese Pizza lab. They did a great job making the dough and assembling the pizzas on the first day of the lab. On day two of the lab they baked and ate their pizza. The sixth graders did a commendable job consuming pizza as well.

The sixth grade students also discussed how to be smart shoppers and discovered the importance of reading nutrition facts' labels on food packages. We will be comparing labels on cereal boxes next week.

Have a great weekend! Go Spartans!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

"Gung Hay Fat Choy"

2010-02-19T13:00:00.000-06:00

Gung Hay Fat Choy means "Best wishes and congratulations. Have a prosperous and good year." Chinese New Year marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. I am hoping this rings true.

The 6th grade students prepared a Fried Rice Recipe in Consumer Education this week in celebration of Chinese New Year. I heard some students share the fact that this was their favorite lab so far. I could tell that the students were quite proud of themselves. There were several tedious tasks involved in making the recipe and the students worked extremely well together.

The students worked in the IMC on Friday and examined the http://www.mypyramid.gov website. Each student completed a "Healthy Day of Eating Plan" and entered their list of foods into the website's "Menu Planner". The students will evaluate the report from their "eating plan" on Monday. They will use it to determine if they reached their individual goal for necessary calories and foods each day.

Enjoy your weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

It is almost time for our first lab!

2010-01-15T13:59:00.000-06:00

The 6th grade students had a busy week. They spent three mornings completing IOWA testing. The students spent the week reviewing kitchen safety as well as food safety and sanitation in Consumer Education class. Each class made Kitchen Safety posters to illustrate safe procedures to follow. The students did a nice job illustrating ways to prevent cuts, burns, fires, falls, and electrical shocks. I am happy to announce that the grades from our quiz on Friday were exceptional. The students will get their quizzes back on Tuesday. Our first lab is next week!

Have a nice weekend.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

On Top of Spaghetti...

2009-10-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

This week the 8th grade students learned how easy it is to make one of their favorite one-dish meals. Spaghetti! They even discussed how nutritious it is. Students also determined that one-dish mixtures are convenient and economical entrees.

The spicy aroma of spaghetti sauce and garlic bread filled the hallways and brought many teachers down to the Consumer Education lab to find out what smelled so good! Several teachers had the chance to be taste-testers. The recipe got rave reviews!

I hope your child shares this recipe with you. Each student did a fabulous job!

Enjoy your weekend.

Sincerely,

Mrs. J. Bretl

What makes a meal appealing?

2009-10-09T14:00:00.000-05:00

The 8th grade students explored how to use variety to make meals appealing. They were very creative in planning their menus: making sure to include a variety of flavors, textures, colors, temperatures, as well as nutritious foods. Each student completed a three-dimensional representation of the menu plan they created last week. I was very pleased with the variety of menus that each class created.

Now that the 8th grade students have several foods' labs behind them things are settling down a bit. Each class was able to get the lab completed on time. The students also did much better with clean up this week.

We made cheese pizza in our lab this week. The students did a great job making the dough and assembling the pizzas. I was impressed with how well the pizza crusts turned out. The students also did a fine job consuming their pizzas.

Have a good weekend.

Mrs. J. Bretl

Yum Yum Cinnamon!

2009-10-02T14:00:00.000-05:00

The 8th grade students started the week by discussing menu planning and meal management. They were able to determine how to analyze menus for variety in color, shape, texture, temperature of foods and nutritional value. We ended the week by planning a healthy meal including an entree, salad or fruit, side dish and dessert. Students will be evaluating their menu plan next week and creating a three-dimensional representation of their meal. Bon appetite!

Our lab was sandwiched in the middle of the week. The students made Cinnamon Pull-Apart Rolls. The hallways were filled with their sweet aroma. MMMM MMMM! The students put forth great effort in planning the lab and following directions. The Cinnamon Pull-Apart Rolls turned out great! I hope they will share the recipe with you.

Have a great weekend!

Mrs. J. Bretl

Let Them Eat Cake!

2009-05-01T12:17:00.000-05:00

Our lab for the week was Wacky Chocolate Cake. The students made the cake and baked it on the first day of the lab. They discovered that the recipe involved a chemical reaction with vinegar and baking soda. On the second day of the lab the students made their own Butter Icing and devoured the cake.

A few students shared some of the cake with their teachers. It was a big hit! The band students were able to have their cake and eat it too!

Have a great weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Manners Do Matter!

2009-04-24T14:15:00.000-05:00

We reviewed good manners and appropriate table etiquette this week. The students seem to be well versed in this area. They did a nice job brainstorming the good manners that they use everyday. The students were able to make posters depicting many of them. I am sure that they practice these same good manners at home, too.

Our lab for the week was Snickerdoodle Cookies. The students worked well with their lab partners and had successful lab results.

The 7th grade Career Fair Field Trip that we took Wednesday was enjoyable. The students had the opportunity to explore a variety of careers at the Technology Center of DuPage County. I visited the Engineering area and the Culinary Arts' presentation. The students were able to use "Royal Icing" to make their own cake decorations at the Culinary Arts' workshop. Most of the students did a great job; although I think they found it to be much harder than they expected.

Enjoy this beautiful weekend!

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Career Exploration

2009-03-27T15:29:00.000-05:00

The seventh grade students completed their job brochures in the IMC this week. Excellent job! When they were finished they were able to use the Internet to explore various careers based on their own personal interests. Each student was able to complete a web quest using the Bureau of Labor Statistics' web page. The web site includes introductory career information. The occupations on the site are categorized according to interests and hobbies such as reading, nature, sports and helping people.
In the classroom we used our Food and Nutrition textbook to investigate careers in the field of Family and Consumer Science as well as Food and Nutrition. The seventh grade students were able to identify numerous vocations in these areas. I have included a link to the Labor Statistics website at the top of this page. Feel free to take a peek.
We also snuck in a quick measuring review and demonstration on Friday. Puppy Chow for all! Yummy!

Have a restful Spring Break.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl

Are you a wise consumer?

2009-03-20T14:18:00.000-05:00

We began our unit on "Consumer Skills" this week. We discussed the fact that middle school students spend thousands of dollars on food, clothes and entertainment every year. Students were able to identify a variety of resources that they can use to help them in making good decisions before they make a purchase. Students shared some examples of their own personal shopping experiences and determined that many were influenced by their peers, advertising and personal habits.

As a means of planning to earn some of their own spending money students were given an assignment to make their own job brochure. Students discussed qualifications, fees, work schedules and other important information needed on their job brochure. We will be working in the IMC next week to complete a final draft of the job brochure using the Publisher program. The students have done a nice job on their rough drafts.

Enjoy your weekend,

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Bretl