If you ask a person to tell you what comes to mind when you say the word “French”, odds are you will hear something related to cuisine. The same is true for Chinese and Spanish. Food is often the first introduction many people have with another language. While a person might not have traveled to Mexico, they can most likely name a dish from that country.
It is often said that food brings people of all backgrounds together. Cooking and sharing a meal is a great way to learn about countries and their languages. At the International School of San Antonio, we believe that cooking is also a great method to practice hands-on learning outside of the classroom.
Earlier this month, we had the amazing opportunity to welcome chef Laurent Réa, Southerleigh Hospitality Group Co-Founder Philippe Placé and Roxy at ISSA. The team from Brasserie Mon Chou Chou prepared exquisite Bûches de Noël for our students to decorate and bring home for the holidays. A Bûche de Noël, similar to a Yule Log, is a chocolate cake in the shape of a wooden log, decorated with sprinkles, candy trees, etc. What makes this cake so special is that it is only sold during the weeks leading up to Christmas. Philippe explains, “For me, this is what Christmas is about […] My favorite part of the holiday was when the Bûche de Noël arrived on our dessert table.” As each language class entered the kitchen, the chef explained the tradition behind the Bûches de Noël and how to ice and decorate their individual cakes.
We asked Philippe why he believes cooking is such an important part of language, “One of the most important factors with younger generations is to not lose our French culinary traditions. You need to celebrate French gastronomy with children. It is one of the most important things that can be taught.” The same can be said across all languages. In China, food is so central to the language and culture that most people greet each other with the question “chi le ma” or “have you eaten”. In Spain, many businesses are closed for a few hours following lunch for the “siesta”.
Thanks to experiences such as these, ISSA students understand the cultural importance of food. They are learning about other cultures while practicing hands-on activities with world-class chefs. Additionally, French students had the chance to do this activity completely immersed in their target language.
It is always an added bonus when your lesson includes chocolate cake!
If you have any questions about ISSA’s language immersion program, please email us at info@issatx.org.
