Try It

Now that you have explored a process for determining the author’s purpose and how the author chooses an appropriate text structure(s), you will have an opportunity to practice analyzing the author’s purpose and choice of structure as you read the following text about popcorn. Read the Newsela article “Scientists study mystery of popcorn: why does it jump and make noise?opens in new window" You will be examining major sections in the text in order to identify the author’s purpose and the corresponding structure(s). 

As you are reading, remember to ask yourself:

  • What does the author want me to learn?
  • What is the central idea? What is the BIGGEST idea in the text?
  • What is the most important information to be gained from reading?
popcornYou will learn about the science of popcorn in the context of closely examining text.

Now, reread paragraphs 1- 6 of the article below and complete the follow-up activities.

Scientists study mystery of popcorn: why does it jump and make noise?

1 When you make popcorn in the microwave, something quite unique happens. A kernel turning into a fluffy white treat actually goes through an exciting scientific transformation.

2 Many people do not understand that popping kernels is rather complicated. Two researchers from France were fascinated by this process. The popping of corn is a reminder that science applies to everything around us — even snack food.

3 Researchers Emmanuel Virot and Alexandre Ponomarenko used physics to study the phenomenon of popcorn popping. They recently published a study on popcorn.

Why Does It Jump And Pop?

4 Until now, most research on popcorn has been focused on simple questions. For example, chemists determined how much moisture a kernel needs to pop. Other scientists studied the shape of kernels. They found the ideal shape for an unpopped kernel is to be round. Other researchers figured out how to reduce the number of kernels that don't pop in a batch of popcorn.

5 Virot and Ponomarenko aren’t interested in improving the taste or experience of popcorn. Instead, they wanted to know more about what causes popcorn to act and taste like it does. They especially wanted to learn what makes popcorn jump and why it makes that pop-pop-pop sound.

6 The scientific name for popcorn is Zea mays everta and it is the only type of corn that pops. Popcorn kernels are rounder than other corn kernels. There is a thin layer, or hull, that covers the seed. Inside the seed is the kernel's endosperm. The endosperm is a starch that provides food (energy) for the living part of the kernel, known as the germ or embryo.

- Newselaopens in new window, February 22, 2015