At the Aggie Chocolate Factory, students experience a Willy Wonka-like adventure, where beans transform into bars without the need for a golden ticket. Partnering with American One English Schools, USU’s cocoa confectioners welcomed winners of a competition to devise a unique chocolate bar flavor while immersing themselves in the world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Mark Sanderson, the project coordinator, integrated the chocolate bar creation with the class’s reading of the book, enhancing the learning experience with an imaginative twist. The students, dubbed “Willy Wonkas,” embraced the challenge of concocting the perfect chocolate bar flavor, culminating in the creation of the Gracy Bite, a simple yet nostalgic blend of pistachios and dark chocolate.
During their visit to the chocolate factory, students delved into the entire chocolate-making process, from bean selection to packaging. Engaging in hands-on activities, they gained insights into the science and artistry behind chocolate production, sparking joy and curiosity.
For the Aggie Chocolate Factory, the collaboration with American One English Schools provided a platform to share their passion for chocolate and impart valuable knowledge to students. Steve Bernet, a faculty member, expressed delight in witnessing students’ enthusiasm for learning about chocolate and its scientific intricacies.
The success of this initiative has inspired plans to expand the project to other schools in Cache Valley, fostering friendly competition and excitement among students. Silvana Martini, one of the project organizers, envisions a future where more students can indulge in the joy of chocolate-making and unleash their creativity.
