How to Use a Recipe to Teach English As a Foreign Language

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Teach English as a Foreign Language

Recipes can be used to demonstrate preparation of unique or exotic dishes even in a language class. But far more is possible when using a recipe to teach English as a foreign language. Here are some suggestions you might consider using with your English language learners. The vast majority of the time, your learners will have a great time not only preparing the recipes they select, but also in explain the recipe and its preparation. In addition, there are a number of useful, highly successful activities which can be easily applied to this form of Content-Based Language learning or Task Based Language learning, both of which are easily applicable..

Using a Recipe in Teaching English as a Foreign Language

Some areas you might consider using in conjunction with a food recipe include:

– Making a recipe preparation video

– Creating a recipe poster with images

– Narrating a recipe preparation

– Writing out a new recipe in different ways

– Shooting digital images of a recipe in preparation

– Focusing on the use of a particular ingredient in the preparation of different recipes

– Preparation of simple, basic recipes in class

– Having English language learners bring prepared dishes to class and explain their ingredients and preparation

– Posting videos, narrations and written recipes online

Video Recipes for Teaching English as a Foreign or Second language

Short step-by-step videos are a great way of using language in context for English as a foreign language learners. No matter who writes out the recipe, first you’ll prepare a working list of key lexis and vocabulary. Make sure your learners know these thoroughly. Learners can then videotape or photograph each step of the recipe preparation process. The photos and video clips can then be easily assembled into a finished video using any video editing program. Be sure to use very simple, easy-to-make recipes at first. More difficult, involved or lengthier recipes will be easier to produce later, after the learners have acquired a little experience. Many editing software programs are not only free but particularly simple and easy to use.

Useful Techniques to Try

Some techniques to consider which directly involve using recipes can include:

– Picture / vocabulary lists of ingredients

– Units of measurement explained

– Verbs used to describe cooking processes

– Vocabulary of fruits, vegetables, condiments and meats or local seafood

– Information on culturally related aspects of dishes and ingredients

– Actual preparation of simple recipes in class

– Class trip to a supermarket to identify foods and departments

– Identification of canned and bottled goods available locally

– Use short cooking and holiday videos in class

– Traditional recipes used in holidays and celebrations

There are a great variety of other ideas you can try out with your foreign language learners which are food and recipe related. One thing is for certain, everyone likes to eat so food will always be a topic near and dear to the hearts of your learners. So why not put together a few of your favorite recipes to use with your classes soon?