Lesson Plan: Forest School Cooking
Subject
Health
Topic
Forest School Cooking
Duration
30 Minutes
Age Group
Doesn't matter
Learning Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand the importance of nutrition and healthy cooking in an outdoor setting.
- Identify edible plants and ingredients that can be found in the forest.
- Prepare a simple dish using natural ingredients.
Resources Needed
- String or cord for gathering materials
- Basic cooking tools (e.g., knives, chopping boards, pots)
- Firepit or portable stove (if available) for cooking
- Ingredients: Seasonal vegetables, herbs, and other local edible plants
- Bowls and utensils for serving
- First-aid kit
Introduction (5 Minutes)
- Welcome and Safety Briefing: Begin by welcoming students to the Forest School Cooking lesson. Discuss safety procedures when cooking outdoors, including fire safety and handling tools.
- Introduction to Forest Cooking: Explain the concept of forest cooking, highlighting how it promotes not only healthy eating but also environmental awareness.
Body of the Lesson (20 Minutes)
Identifying Ingredients (10 Minutes)
- Foraging Activity: Take students on a short walk around the school grounds or nearby forest area. Teach them to identify safe and edible plants, herbs, and vegetables. Discuss the importance of foraging responsibly and sustainably.
- Discussion: Ask students what they know about the nutritional benefits of different edible plants they might encounter.
Cooking Activity (10 Minutes)
- Preparation: Back in the designated cooking area, demonstrate how to properly wash and prepare the gathered ingredients.
- Cooking Together: Engage students in a group cooking activity, where they can help chop, mix, and prepare a simple dish such as a vegetable stew or a salad.
- Cooking Tips: Highlight cooking methods suitable for outdoor settings (e.g., open fire, camping stove) and discuss ways to enhance flavour with herbs and spices.
Conclusion (5 Minutes)
-
Tasting Session: Allow students to taste their dish and discuss the flavours, textures, and nutritional benefits.
-
Reflections: Encourage students to reflect on their experience. Questions may include:
- What did you learn about edible plants?
- How does cooking outdoors differ from cooking at home?
- Why is it important to know where our food comes from?
-
Wrap-Up: Summarise key points learned in the lesson, reinforcing the connection between healthy eating, outdoor skills, and sustainability.
Assessment
- Observe students during the foraging and cooking activities for engagement and understanding.
- Gather feedback during the tasting session to assess comprehension of nutritional benefits and cooking techniques.
Additional Notes
- Ensure that all ingredients used are safe and suitable for all students, taking into account any allergies or dietary restrictions.
- Adjust the lesson according to the age and skill levels of the participants, providing support and guidance as necessary.
By cultivating an appreciation for nature and healthy eating in an engaging manner, this lesson aims to foster a lifelong connection with food and the environment.