Through Wendy's Window: Two for 50 Cents

Noah and his 5th grade classmates became entrepreneurs this month. Each student was asked to complete a Business Plan outlining start-up costs, an advertising plan and projected revenue. Once the Business Plan was approved, Noah received a $10 loan from the "bank" (his teacher). Not only did Noah pay for his ingredients, he was also responsible for paying: .50 cents for utilities (stove), rent of .50 for store location, .25 for advertisement supplies, .25 for a shop permit and Trey and I were compensated .50 each for our participation in helping Noah's business unfold.

Noah's business product: "rainbow glass". Rainbow glass is 1) easy to make 2) inexpensive and 3) tastes good. Trey and Noah worked closely together making orange, lemon and mint rainbow glass. Once the product was finished, the candy was weighed and packaged.

Rainbow Glass requires lots of sugar, light corn syrup and water.

Once the sugar dissolves, the mixture begins to boil and continues to boil until the temperature reaches 300 degrees. Little did we know how patient we would need to be for the candy to reach the magic temperature. At 300 degrees, the fun begins. Trey quickly transferred the mixture to a new, unheated pan while I added flavoring and color. We learned, through trial and error, that if the candy does not reach at least 300 degrees it remains rubbery and if the temperature exceeds 310 degrees--the candy burns leaving a horrible scent in the house that lasts well over 24 hours!

Below the orange stained glass candy, cooling. Once cool, the glass breaks into many pieces.

Yesterday and today the class finally had the opportunity to sell their products. During lunch, Noah and his classmates set up shop on the stage and waited for their customers.

Noah altered his marketing strategy today selling his candy 2 for 50 cents rather than 1 for 25 cents. He sold out of his candy prior to the start of 5th grade lunch. The entrepreneurs will now complete their Final Business Plan, repay their loan and enjoy their profits. Noah will net approximately $14.00--not bad for a 25 cent product.