Creator: American Historical Association | visit site
Grade Range: 6 - 11
Teaching about World War I usually involves a little international politics, a little national politics, and a side trip into the innovations of waging war. Why not include something a little more personal and relatable--like food? Four short (under 5 minutes) videos introduce the idea that Americans’ role in providing food aid to Europe in the early stages of the war was part of the larger Progressive movement. The videos also focus on the actual preparation of a World War I era meal. Information about the actual recipes is interwoven with further political and cultural commentary about life in the US during the World War I era. Videos are hosted on Vimeo, so Flash isn’t required.
In the Classroom
Use these short videos to make life during World War I come alive. Consider asking students to make some of these recipes themselves at home, or if it’s feasible, prepare an authentic meal at school as a treat during the unit. Students might discuss the issue of food rationing during both World War I and II as a contrast to the widespread availability of all kinds of food today. How is food rationing a patriotic act? Challenge students to find other popular recipes from this time in history. Have students video the preparation and explanation of the recipe. Share the videos on a site such as TeacherTube <a href="/single.cfm?id=9419">reviewed here</a>.
At Home
Involve kids in planning, shopping for, and preparing a meal that takes the concept of food rationing into consideration. How might life be different if specific kinds of foods were not readily available?
Tags
Subjects
American History, Family and Consumer Science, Health, History & Culture: Europe, History & Culture: The Americas, Science, Social Studies, Social Studies,