McGraw-Hill Health 2005

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Macmillan/McGraw-Hill Health Grade 3
Grade 3
e-Journal

Health Online
Caffeine: Then and Now

Step 1. Questions

Caffeine can show up in the least expected places! Most people are familiar with caffeine in coffee. But did you know it is also in cocoa, chocolate, and soft drinks? Caffeine has been around for a very long time. What exactly is caffeine? How does caffeine affect a person’s body and health?

In this e-journal activity you are going to explore the sometimes hidden truths about caffeine. You will research and report on this very popular stimulant. Here are some questions to investigate:
  • What is caffeine?
  • What is the history of caffeine?
  • What are the effects of caffeine? Can too much caffeine be dangerous?
First, visit the Web sites listed in Step 2 to research the answers to these questions. Take notes in the note-taking boxes. You may also visit other approved Web sites, or research caffeine in encyclopedias and other resources at the library.

Then, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.

Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!

Neuroscience for Kids – Caffeine
What is caffeine? This site will tell you just about everything you need to know about this substance. Using the data in the charts provided you can see how much caffeine is in different beverages, foods, and non-prescription drugs.
Take Notes:



What About Caffeine?
Learn about caffeine from the experts at Yale-New Haven Hospital. There is data on caffeine content in foods, as well as a discussion on the relationship between caffeine and health. You will be able to answer the question, “When it comes to caffeine, how much is too much?”
Take Notes:



How Stuff Works: Caffeine
Learn why 90% of Americans drink something with caffeine in it everyday. What is caffeine? Where does caffeine show up in your diet? Discover the effects that caffeine has on your body and how it works.
Take Notes:



Go to Step 3 or Save My Notes


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