The purpose of this lesson is to introduce a new food to the children in your classroom. The more times children are exposed to new foods, the more likely they are to eat and enjoy these foods in the future.
Overview
In this lesson, children can taste test raw and steamed cabbage..
Learning Objectives
Children will describe the appearance, smell, and taste of raw and steamed cabbage.
Teaching Objectives
Teachers will model healthy eating behavior by participating alongside the children.
Teaching Tips
Children are more likely to try a new food if an adult models the behavior!
Some children may not try the food at the first opportunity, so do not pressure them to try it as they are more likely to try it next time.
Prep Info
Equipment Required
Materials/Supplies
* Optional
Before the Lesson
Prepare tasting samples of raw and steamed cabbage for each child.
Wash the items to ensure they are clean and safe for tasting.
Ensure all food samples are cut into pieces no larger than ½ inch to prevent choking.
Steam a portion of the tasting samples in the microwave until tender, and allow samples to cool before serving.
Immediately before the lesson, ask the children to wash their hands.
Activity
Introduction
This activity should work well in small groups at tables. Each table should have two plates: one plate with samples of raw cabbage and one plate with samples of steamed cabbage.
Words to Use
Activity Description
Gather the children in small groups at their tables after they have washed their hands.
Ask the children if they recognize the food. Remind them when they tried cabbage as food detectives.
Instruct each child to pick up a sample of the raw cabbage.
Ask the children to smell the raw cabbage and ask, “What does raw cabbage smell like?”
Encourage the children to taste the sample, but let them decide whether to taste it and share their thoughts or personal connections.
Ask the children to describe the sample they tasted.
Repeat the process with the steamed cabbage.
Encourage the children to compare cabbage to other foods they have tried. How does cabbage look, smell, or taste different? What’s the difference between raw cabbage and steamed cabbage?
Summary
Enrichment
"Did you know cabbage is full of Vitamin K? Vitamin K helps your body heal cuts and scrapes. Cabbage also has lots of water, which helps keep your body hydrated. What do you think would happen if cabbage gave you superpowers? Maybe you’d be able to heal like a superhero!"
Attention Teachers!
Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s weekly log form for this lesson.
Evaluation
Attention Teachers!
Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s evaluation form for this lesson.
