3rd Grade  Project 8 weeks

"Cafeteria Cuisine: A World on a Plate!"

Siobhan E
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.3.2
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.SL.1
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage 3rd-grade students in a hands-on exploration of cultural diversity through the lens of food. By revamping the school cafeteria menu, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they research and integrate diverse cultural cuisines, while adhering to educational guidelines. This experience fosters self-directed learning, as students collaborate with community partners, such as nutritionists and chefs, to create a culturally rich menu. Through this process, students will cultivate an academic mindset, enhancing their sense of identity and belonging by understanding the cultural significance of food.

Learning goals

Students will explore and appreciate diverse cultural identities through the lens of food, enhancing their understanding of global cultures and histories. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by researching and selecting culturally significant dishes, considering dietary restrictions and nutritional guidelines. Through collaboration with community partners, students will refine their communication skills and apply feedback to create a culturally inclusive menu. Additionally, students will engage in self-directed learning by reflecting on their experiences and contributions to the project, fostering a sense of belonging and identity.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.3.2 - Recount stories, including fables, folktales, and myths from diverse cultures; determine the central message, lesson, or moral and explain how it is conveyed through key details in the text.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.SL.1 - Prepare for and participate effectively in a range of conversations and collaborations with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.7 - Integrate and evaluate content presented in diverse media and formats, including visually and quantitatively, as well as in words.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively design and produce a multicultural menu, incorporating languages of the represented cultures. They will create invitations and decorations for a grand opening event, featuring music and signs that highlight cultural relevance. The project will also include nutrition facts and ingredient lists for each dish, along with surveys to gather feedback. Students will document recipes and visually represent the process through art, culminating in a week-long exhibition where the menu is served in the cafeteria.

Launch

Kick off the project by taking students to the middle school cafeteria for a special lunch featuring a variety of international dishes. During the meal, encourage students to observe and discuss the different foods, flavors, and presentation styles. Facilitate a conversation about how food can reflect cultural identity and the importance of diverse culinary traditions. This experience will spark curiosity and set the stage for their exploration of cultural influences on food.

Exhibition

Students will host a week-long cultural food exhibition in the school cafeteria, showcasing the diverse menu they created. Each day will feature dishes from different cultures, complete with student-designed menus, decorations, and music that reflect the cultural origins of the foods. The exhibition will include interactive stations where students present their research process and share stories and facts about the cultural significance of the dishes. Parents, community partners, and school staff will be invited to attend, taste the foods, and engage in discussions led by the students. This event will serve as a platform for students to demonstrate their learning and celebrate cultural diversity within the school community.