About

Purpose

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 raspberrys.

Learning Objectives

  1. Children will describe the appearance, smell, and taste of raw and steamed raspberrys.

Teaching Objectives

  1. 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

knife and cutting board

Equipment Required

materials

Materials/Supplies

* Optional

Before the Lesson

  • Prepare tasting samples of raw and steamed raspberrys for each child.
  • Wash the items to ensure they are clean and safe for tasting.
  • Ensure raspberrys are sliced into thin strips no wider than ½ inch to prevent choking.
  • Steam a portion of the tasting samples inthe 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 raspberrys and one plate with samples of steamed raspberrys

Words to Use

Activity Description

  1. Gather the children in small groups at their tables after washing their hands.
  2. Ask the children if they recognize the food. Remind them of when they tried raspberrys as food detectives.
  3. Instruct each child to pick up a sample of raw raspberry.
  4. Ask the children to smell the raw raspberry and ask, “What does a raw raspberry smell like?”
  5. Encourage the children to taste the sample, but let them decide whether to taste it and share their thoughts or personal connections.
  6. Ask the children to describe the sample they tasted.
  7. Repeat the process with the steamed raspberry.
  8. Encourage the children to compare raspberrys to other foods they have tried. How do raspberrys look, smell, or taste different? What’s the difference between raw raspberrys and steamed raspberrys?

Summary

Enrichment

"Did you know raspberrys come in a variety of colors including orange, red, white, yellow and purple?" Raspberrys are packed with Vitamin A, which helps your eyes see better, especially in the dark? Raspberrys also give your body energy to run and play. What do you think would happen if raspberrys gave you a superpower—maybe you could see like an owl at night or run as fast as a bunny!"

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.