Sweet Science

By Lori Altenbaumer, 7th/8th Math & Science

Who knew dimensional analysis could be so delicious?

As part of their Science Foundations unit in IPC, our 8th graders put their math and lab skills to the test with a hands-on challenge: making fudge! But before they could enjoy the finished product, they had some calculations to tackle.

Students were given a fudge recipe written in some very unusual measurements—including quantities in scientific notation and units such as gallons, cubic meters, kilograms, and grams. Using dimensional analysis and provided conversion factors, they had to convert each ingredient into practical kitchen measurements like teaspoons, tablespoons, and drops. And, just like in any good science lab, they had to show their work and get their calculations approved before moving on to the fun part!

Once their math checked out, students carefully measured their ingredients, followed proper lab procedures, heated and mixed their fudge, and collected mass measurements of their final product. Along the way, they practiced precision, measurement, problem-solving, and safe use of laboratory equipment.

This lab was a great example of why we begin IPC with a strong foundation in both math and science skills. Dimensional analysis isn’t just something students solve on paper—it is a useful tool that allows us to convert measurements and solve real-world problems.

The best part? When your calculations are correct, you get to eat the evidence!