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 will describe what a Cucumber looks like under a magnifying glass. Children will also share if they like how a Cucumber feels, smells and tastes.
Learning Objectives
Children will complete the first of four cucumber tasting experiences.
Children will describe what a cucumber looks like under a magnifying glass.
Teaching Objectives
Teachers will model healthy eating behavior for children.
Teaching Tips
Young children are more likely to try a new food if the behavior is modeled by an adult.
Children may not want to try a new food. Encourage each child to take one bite.
Prep Info
Equipment Required
Materials/Supplies
* Optional
Before the Lesson
Select one whole cucumber for children to closely examine with magnifying glasses.
Prepare samples of cucumber slices for children to taste.
Activity
Introduction
This activity will work well as a circle time activity and at tables, in small groups, for tasting.
Words to Use
Activity Description
Gather the children in a circle and explain that everybody is going to be a food detective. Remind children that a good food detective uses his or her eyes, ears, hands, and mouth to collect clues.
Pass the cucumber around the circle and encourage each child to touch the cucumber and look at the cucumber with his or her own magnifying glass.
Ask the children what the cucumber looks like and if they like the way cucumber feels on their hands.
Ask the children to wash their hands and go to their tables.
At the tables, provide each child with a sample of cucumber. Encourage children to smell the cucumber before tasting it.
Summary
Enrichment
Use a cucumber to measure a child’s arm or height. Encourage children to measure each other using a cucumber.
Attention Teachers!
Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s weekly log form for this lesson.
Weekly Log
Attention Teachers!
Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s weekly log form for this lesson.
