When trying to make History more tangible and alive for students, could there be a more perfect medium than eating content based food? If there is a better medium, I haven't found one...especially for 8th grade students.
Although I know that I need to integrate this more frequently in my class, u can point out a couple of times that it has worked. One group of students was giving a presentation on a Colonial region of the United States. In order to highlight the resources in the region, (the South), the students made biscuits using an authentic recipe from the time. Not only did the class enjoy the treat, but it was a great way to show exactly how the resources available in that region could be used. I would like to take credit for this, but it was completely the idea of the group.
Another time that I have seen this work well is through enrichment activities. If a student is looking for a challenge, they can try a relevant time period recipe and bring it in for the class to enjoy. Of course you need to get this approved by the nurse and principal, and make sure students are clear from allergies to an ingredients. One resource for recipes is a great book called "Cooking Up U.S. History." I am also adding a link to a PBS site with recipes. Bon Apetit!
http://www.pbs.org/food/shows/a-taste-of-history/
A meal preparation activity at Old Sturbridge Village
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