Final answer:
The candy exercise was likely designed to teach various concepts depending on the context, whether it's self-control through the marshmallow test, statistical analysis with a candy survey, rhetorical strategies in advertising, or chemical bonding through model-building.
Step-by-step explanation:
The candy exercise in class was likely meant to serve multiple educational purposes. For instance, the marshmallow test mentioned, often conducted in psychology, is designed to assess a child's ability to delay gratification. Watching Joachim de Posada's TED Talk about the marshmallow test would give insight into self-control and long-term success related to the ability to wait.
In another context, a candy survey might be used to teach concepts of statistics and probability by comparing the mean number of candy pieces per package between two brands. This would demonstrate how to conduct a simple statistical analysis and interpret the results.
Alternatively, exercises involving descriptions of a candy store or analyzing candy advertisements, such as the M&M commercial, might be used to teach rhetorical strategies and how products appeal to the senses and emotions. The exercise would reveal how candies can symbolize human behavior and how ads can appeal to pathos or induce a sensory experience.
Lastly, exercise-building models using candy can be a practical way to learn about different types of chemical bonding in a fun and engaging manner. Overall, these exercises use tangible examples to help students grasp abstract concepts.