Corn, Chemistry, and Culture: Teaching Collision Theory Through Nixtamalization

2026 Anaheim - NSTA National Conference

Presented By:

Deena Gould & Daniel Delgado

University Of New Mexico & Cuba Intendent School District

Conference Strand

Teaching Strategies and Classroom Practice

This session features a culturally relevant, phenomenon-driven chemistry lesson that teaches reaction rates and collision theory through the Indigenous process of nixtamalization—cooking corn in an alkaline solution to release nutrients. Structured with the 5E model, students investigate how changing alkaline concentration affects reaction rates through hands-on labs, molecular modeling, and authentic data analysis. The lesson bridges chemistry and culture, supporting sensemaking through anchoring phenomena and student-generated questions aligned with NGSS HS-PS1-5. Participants will engage with classroom-tested strategies, sample student work, and adaptable assessments that promote equity, deepen engagement, and affirm cultural identity. The session offers practical guidance for connecting rigorous scientific inquiry with community knowledge to enhance student belonging in chemistry classrooms.

One Main Takeaway

Learn how nixtamalization can anchor culturally relevant chemistry instruction. Experience hands-on and modeling strategies that strengthen sensemaking in reaction-rate lessons. Access adaptable NGSS-aligned tools to promote equity and student identity in science learning.