Ratios in the Kitchen: Math Worksheet
Worksheets
30 minutesGrades6, 7, 8Mathematics
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Written by Mallory Swafford, Lisa Greenwood
About this activity
In this activity, students learn about the impact of food waste on climate change by watching Food Waste Causes Climate Change, Here’s How We Stop It. They reflect on their own household food waste habits through guided discussion questions, considering why waste occurs and how they might reduce it. Students then complete the Food Waste Ratios worksheet to deepen their understanding. This activity encourages critical thinking about sustainability and practical solutions to a global issue.
Everything you need to teach it
- Ratios in the Kitchen: Math WorksheetView Activity
Teaching tips
- Students can watch the following videos:
- Students discuss their own observations regarding food waste. Suggested prompts include: Why do you think there is so much food waste? What are some ways you personally contribute to food waste, and how could you reduce it? What challenges might people face when trying to waste less food? How can small changes in our daily habits help reduce food waste on a larger scale?
- Students discuss the connection between food waste and climate change impacts. Suggested prompts include: How do you think food waste affects the environment, including land, water, and air? How could reducing food waste help slow down climate change and protect the planet for future generations?
- Some students may experience food insecurity at home, impacting their perspectives on food waste. It's important to approach this topic with sensitivity, acknowledging that access to food varies and creating a space for respectful and empathetic discussions.
- To extend this activity, have students write a list of ways they feel they could help reduce food waste in their home or at school.
From the scientist review
Students can learn about the effects of food waste on climate change with this resource. Students will calculate the ratio of ingredients needed to prepare a meal to the size of the household and then explore strategies to prevent food wastage.
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About the teacher writers
Mallory Swafford
Teacher
I graduated in 2014 from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale with a zoology degree. I worked in the field of zoology until 2018 when I decided to make the switch to education. I now am certified to teach first through sixth grades in general education. I am endorsed in middle grades science and I expect to finish my master's in high school biology this year. I love teaching science and am excited to work with the Subject to Climate team!
Lisa Greenwood
K-2 Teacher
Lisa Greenwood holds a Master's Degree in Childhood Education from CUNY Hunter College. She has nine years of experience teaching all subjects, including STEM, for grades K–5. Lisa holds New York State Professional Certificates in Childhood Education and Special Education.
