Family and Consumer Science

Family & Consumer Science (Grades 6–8)

Our Family & Consumer Science program gives students hands-on experience developing practical life skills that connect directly to math, science, and reading. Across grades 6–8, students build confidence in sewing, cooking, and kitchen safety while strengthening creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. Lessons emphasize responsibility, measurement, safety, and resource management.

Students explore how everyday skills—sewing projects, food preparation, nutrition awareness, and safe tool use—apply to both academic and real-world contexts. By practicing decision-making and reflection, they develop the resilience, adaptability, and 21st-century skills—communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking—that prepare them for success beyond middle school.

In our classes, we live by the motto: Learn by doing, be safe, and take pride in your work.

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Grade 6 – Sewing Foundations

Students are introduced to sewing machine and hand-sewing safety, tools, and basic stitching techniques. Projects include:

  • Locker Pocket (intro to measurement & machine use)

  • Patchwork Pillow (pattern following & accuracy)

  • Create-Your-Own Creature (student-designed, creative stitching project)

Skills Emphasized: Sewing safety • patience & persistence • creativity & problem-solving • measurement accuracy

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Grade 7 – Sewing & Cooking Basics

Students expand their sewing skills and begin exploring kitchen safety and basic food preparation. Units include:

  • Drawstring Backpack (intermediate sewing, design, accuracy)

  • Kitchen safety, sanitation, and tool use

  • Measurement with cups & spoons (fractions & conversions)

  • Cooking labs: Granola Bars, Fruit Smoothies, Pancakes

Skills Emphasized: Sewing craftsmanship • nutrition awareness • applied math in measurement • teamwork & reflection

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Grade 8 – Cooking & Food Science

Students focus on advanced cooking labs and nutrition concepts while reinforcing safe kitchen practices. Units include:

  • Knife Skills (safe handling, cutting techniques)

  • Kitchen sanitation & tool review

  • Cooking labs: Snickerdoodles, Quick Breads, Yeast Doughs, Garlic Bread, Pizza

  • Food science experiments: chemical changes in baking, nutrition & recipe scaling

Skills Emphasized: Kitchen & tool safety • accurate measurement • collaboration & responsibility • critical thinking & analysis

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Safety & Expectations in FCS

Safety is the highest priority in all FCS classes. Students are expected to demonstrate responsibility, respect, and focus while working in the sewing lab or kitchens. They learn and review safety rules before using any tool, appliance, or machine, and must follow posted procedures at all times. Misuse of equipment or unsafe actions may result in a loss of privileges and alternative assignments.

Beyond tool use, students are also expected to collaborate respectfully, maintain an organized workspace, and take care of shared equipment and materials. These habits not only keep labs safe but also build responsibility and professionalism—skills that carry into high school, careers, and everyday life.

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What Students Should Bring

To be successful in Family & Consumer Science classes, students should come prepared each day with:

  • Pencil for notes and project planning

  • Hair tied back and appropriate attire and shoes for sewing and cooking labs

  • A positive attitude – ready to collaborate, follow directions, and try new skills

Together, these experiences ensure that students gain the skills, habits, and confidence to manage real-world challenges and prepare for success in high school, careers, and beyond.