Students blend nutrition, creativity, and technology in smoothie project

Students in Beth Tomlinson’s Project Lead the Way: Medical Detectives classes at Broadalbin-Perth Middle School recently took a hands-on approach to learning about nutrition, blending healthy foods with cutting-edge technology to help them fuel their days.

After noticing growing student interest in energy drinks, Tomlinson designed a project to help them explore healthier, natural ways to boost energy. Students began by researching nutrition and developing their own smoothie recipes based on ingredients that support wellness and sustained energy.

In a creative twist, students used artificial intelligence tools to design unique characters representing their smoothie creations. Each class then voted on their favorite recipes to bring to life.

The project culminated in a collaborative tasting experience with students in the neighboring home and careers classes taught by Anna Kittredge. Tomlinson’s students visited each section with blenders full of four selected smoothies, and Kittridge’s students participated in a taste test and completed surveys evaluating each smoothie on factors such as taste, texture, and overall appeal.

The cross-class collaboration not only reinforced lessons in nutrition and science but also encouraged student voice, creativity, and real-world application of their learning.