Teachable+Moment,+Food+Differences

Grade 5 Standard: Student demonstrates an awareness of cultural issues and a respect for human dignity and differences. “I care about and respect the individual differences of others.” Goal: Students will be able to appreciate the unique habits of others while learning about different eating preferences. Resources: Materials: Time: 15 min or longer if warranted Lesson scenario: It is snack time and/or lunch and one student brings out her favorite snack. This is; candied salmon, kim-chi, seaweed snacks, or kippered snacks. Other kids in class wrinkle their noses and make mean remarks. They continue to giggle and laugh at her because she is not snacking on peanut butter and jelly, potato chips or apples. This is the opportunity to allow students to share their families’ favorite foods, the preparation of them, and the history of the snack or dish. Try to get the students to share a bit about their personal heritage and if they do not know why this has become a favorite in the family ask them to come back with more information from home. It is fun for kids to take look at some of the more unusual or special dishes they each enjoy and soon many will find a particular difference they can identify with. The student or students who were teased may help others find a new snack, recipe or at least respect for differences. Assessment: 4- This student understands that it is not polite to tease another for their differences and stops others from teasing. He is quick to defend or deflect the teasing and makes an attempt to ask the student about his snack or shares his interest or appreciation for the food. He carries his tolerance for ethnic or other differences beyond the classroom. He interacts respectfully with others. He shares his own snack or recipe with others. 3- This student does not join in the teasing and exhibits understanding, tolerance and respect for others’ differences. She recognizes differences and similarities in family or personal tastes and habits. She adds to the group discussion in a positive way. 2- This student recognizes but does not always respect cultural or personal differences often leading to teasing others to make himself feel better. He must be reminded to appreciate differences of others. He is compliant in becoming tolerant when he is prompted to. He may be reluctant to identify his own uniqueness. 1- This student does not readily observe or appreciate cultural or personal differences. She needs help identifying her own unique qualities and must be taught and reminded to appreciate others. She does not worry about making fun of others’ differences and does not contribute to the group discussion in a positive way.
 * 1) 3 Social Awareness