Project Description

 

Our "Around the World" project will be working with 4th grade students. The focus of this project is for students to gain a first hand understanding how different countries are by means of examining the food of the predominant cultures of those areas. First, the students will divide into groups and choose a country. The countries will be based on a general region we as teachers have chosen for them. Second, each group will have a few class periods to brainstorm about what questions they would like to ask the people in their chosen country. Each group will receive a list of a few of the same questions, selected by the teachers, to ask their chosen country. Students will need to research what type of resources are available in this country and how these available resources effect the dishes their culture prepares. The inquiry they prepare will reflect this objective. After each group has their questions ready, the teachers will use epals to contact fourth grade classes from the other cultures. The location of the other students will depend on the country the group selected. During contact, students will ask their questions and take notes on the "interview".  After the "interview," students will have an opportunity for additional questions or follow-up questions, as well as additional independent research to round out their project.  Next, the students will write a small research paper comparing and contrasting the culture they have chosen to our culture.  We will have a class session discussing safety in the kitchen, showing basic kitchen rules and steps.  The students choose a dish that is representative of all the information they have learned about their culture as well as the use of a classroom kitchen.  At the end of this project, the 4th grade classes will conduct a food fair where each group will present the information they have learned as well as the representative dish they chose to cook.  The "Around the World" food fair will invite parents, all students, and other teachers, providing an excellent opportunity for community involvement. 

 

Here is the list of questions each group will receive:

    1.  What resources are available in your area and how does that affect the things you cook/make for food?

    2.  On a holiday or special celebration, do you serve a traditional meal or side dish?

    3.  What kinds of vegetables or fruits are grown in your area?

    4.  From the available resources in your area, what is used to make your favorite meal? 

    5.  What is the weather like in your area?  Does this effect the agriculture there?

    6.  Are the resources available to you (agriculture) seasonal?  If so - what season(s)?

    7.  What type of food is your area "famous" for in your opinion?