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10th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Food Fusion: A Cultural Feast Quest

Kate H
Updated
RI.9-10.9
C.9-10.5
RL.9-10.6
RL.9-10.10
C.9-10.6
+ 7 more
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Purpose

This project-based learning experience invites 10th grade ELA students to explore the cultural significance of food, highlighting its role in shaping identities and narratives within cross-cultural literature. By creating diverse culinary experiences influenced by literary themes and personal cultural identities, students will examine how food serves as a bridge between cultures and generations. Integrated strategies and community collaborations will solidify critical analysis skills and empower students to thoughtfully prepare for the Kentucky Summative Assessment Reading Test.

Learning goals

Students will delve into the influence of food on cultural identities and narratives, incorporating insights from literature to draw connections with their personal and familial food traditions. They will engage in immersive research projects, synthesizing information from diverse texts and community interactions to develop analytical and empathetic perspectives on cross-cultural food experiences. Through the creation of multimedia presentations and cultural food guides, students will demonstrate mastery in literary analysis, effective communication, and critical thinking in line with Kentucky ELA standards, preparing them for the upcoming assessment tests.

Standards
  • [Kentucky] RI.9-10.9 - Analyze documents of historical and literary significance, including how they address related themes and concepts.
  • [Kentucky] C.9-10.5 - Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
  • [Kentucky] RL.9-10.6 - Analyze a particular author's perspective or cultural experience reflected in a work of literature by drawing on a wide reading of world literature.
  • [Kentucky] RL.9-10.10 - By the end of the year, flexibly use a variety of comprehension strategies (i.e., questioning, monitoring, visualizing, inferencing, summarizing, synthesizing, using prior knowledge, determining importance) to read, comprehend and analyze grade-level appropriate, complex literary texts independently and proficiently.
  • [Kentucky] C.9-10.6 - Gather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively; assess the usefulness of each source in answering the research question; integrate information into the text selectively to maintain the flow of ideas, avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.
  • [Kentucky] RI.9-10.1 - Cite relevant and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
  • [Kentucky] RI.9-10.4 - Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative and technical meanings; analyze the cumulative impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone.
  • [Kentucky] RL.9-10.1 - Cite relevant and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
  • [Kentucky] RL.9-10.4 - Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the cumulative impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone.
Competencies
  • Empowered Learner - Demonstrates mastery and application of academic competencies. Develops the skills and dispositions to persist through difficulties and plan for a future of self-improvement.
  • Engaged Citizen - Shows respect and empathy across differences, embraces diversity of opinion, seeks cultural understanding, participates in the democratic process to challenge the status quo, and makes a positive impact on their community and the world.
  • Effective Communicator - Engages diverse audiences respectfully by exchanging ideas and information responsibly, listening actively, speaking and writing clearly, and using print and digital media appropriately.

Products

Students will create Cultural Food Guides combining recipes, personal narratives, and cultural insights derived from literature studied in class, showcasing their ability to synthesize texts with personal and historical food connections. Their digital photo essays will visually narrate the intersection of literary themes with personal food heritage. A Cross-Cultural Cuisine Conclave will cap the project, where students will exhibit their guides, present multimedia narratives, conduct cooking demonstrations, and facilitate discussions, reflecting their profound understanding of the cultural and literary connections made throughout the unit.

Launch

Host a "World Literary Feast," where students can explore and discuss dishes inspired by the literature they will study, while connecting them to their own cultural backgrounds and traditions. Encourage reflective dialogue, enabling students to draw connections between the flavors, ingredients, and narratives of both their personal experiences and the literature involved. This activity launches the inquiry into food as a cultural connector, integrating discussions on identity and diversity in meaningful conversations.

Exhibition

Arrange an interactive "Global Cultural Heritage Day" exhibition where students present their cultural food guides alongside dishes inspired by the literature explored. Students will narrate their personal food stories and discuss their connection to the literary themes, encouraging reflection and cultural understanding. Integrate live cooking demos and interactive storytelling sessions to create a dynamic and engaging experience, with tasting stations facilitated by community partners for an immersive celebration of cultural and literary diversity.