A Taste of America

Family and Consumer Science

Garnet Valley High School

Instructor:      Mrs. Susan Mrusko

Tel: (610) 579-7489

Email: mruskos@garnetvalleyschools.com

Course Description:

This course is a study of cultural food patterns of diverse groups in the United States.  Course will cover the influence of cultural, ethnic, historic and geographical factors on food choice, availability and preference.

Course Objectives: The student will be able to:

-Identify unique and common characteristics of cultural food habits for various cultures

-Describe historical factors that have influenced the food habits and nutritional status of the American multicultural society.

-Demonstrate food preparation skills utilizing key aspects of cultural food patterns.

            -Appreciate some of the foods available in the different United States regions

Course Expectations:

Class activities will include lecture, films, discussion, group work, cooperative food labs, computer assignments and individual heritage reports.

Students are expected to keep a notebook and it will be periodically checked.  The notebook should contain lecture notes, handouts, assignments and returned quizzes and papers.  It may be either a three-ring binder or a pocket folder.

            There is a $15.00 lab fee. Due: ______________

Course Outline:

1.      Introduction:

a.       Kitchen and lab equipment safety.

b.      Food safety and sanitation

c.       General Nutrition

d.      Food and culture

e.       Recipe analysis and use.

2.      New England

3.      Eastern Heartland

4.      Middle Atlantic

5.      Southern States

6.      Southwest

7.      Pacific Coast

8.      Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean

9.      Cultural Heritage

Evaluation Process/Student Responsibilities:

Students will be evaluated on class and food lab participation, completion of assigned projects, quizzes and examinations.  In the event a student misses a food lab, there is a make-up assignment due within one week.  Examinations or quizzes missed due to illness are to be made up within one week.  It is the responsibility of the student to consult the teacher for any make-up.  Any unexcused missed assignments or tests will result in grade deduction.

Grades will consist of:

            -Class work and food labs

            -Exams

            -Cultural Food Presentation

            -Notebook