The Many Uses of Corn

Another program we attended in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was called Awww Shucks led by Ranger Jarred. You can view my pictures on Flickr HERE.

Ranger Jarred talked about the many uses of corn and I learned some ways that I had never heard of before. I never thought about how the corn cobs could be used on the dirt floor to absorb water and keep the floors in the barns and the cabin from getting muddy. I guess that is a lot like gravel but using corn instead. He also shared about the corn shucking parties and people wanting to find the red eared corn so they could kiss the person they fancied.

This would be a fun activity to students to do in the classroom. I would break students into groups and have them research the way people have used corn in the past. Then bring them back into a big group and compile a list as each group takes turns giving a use not mentioned yet. A competition could also be done with small prizes and if a group runs out of a new use, then they are out of the game. The game is played until only one team is left.

This activity could also be done with other items in the kitchen or a tool. What items would you suggest for this activity? Please share.

Original photo by Pat Hensley