How to use a recipe to teach English as a foreign language

Teach English as a Foreign Language

The recipes can be used to demonstrate the preparation of unique or exotic dishes even in a language class. But much more can be done when using a recipe to teach English as a foreign language. Here are some suggestions that you might consider using with your English learners. The vast majority of the time, your students will have a great time not only preparing the recipes they select, but also explaining the recipe and its preparation. In addition, there are a number of useful and highly successful activities that 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 that you might consider using in conjunction with a food recipe include:

– Make a recipe preparation video

– Creation of a recipe poster with images.

– Narrate the preparation of a recipe

– Write a new recipe in different ways.

– Taking digital images of a recipe in preparation

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

– Preparation of simple and basic recipes in class.

– Have English learners bring prepared dishes to class and explain their ingredients and preparation.

– Post videos, narratives and written recipes online

Video recipes for teaching English as a foreign language or as a second language

Short step-by-step videos are a great way to use language in context for learners of English as a foreign language. No matter who writes the recipe, you will first prepare a key vocabulary and lexicon worklist. Make sure your students know them thoroughly. Students can then video or photograph each step of the recipe-making process. Photos and video clips can be easily assembled into a finished video using any video editing program. Make sure to use very simple and easy recipes at first. More difficult, complicated, or longer recipes will be easier to produce later, once students have gained some experience. Many editing software programs are not only free, but they are especially simple and easy to use.

Useful techniques to test

Some techniques to consider that directly involve the use of recipes may include:

– Ingredient lists with pictures / vocabulary

– Units of measure explained

– Verbs used to describe cooking processes.

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

– Information on aspects of dishes and ingredients related to culture

– Real preparation of simple recipes in class.

– Travel in class to a supermarket to identify foods and departments.

– Identification of locally available canned and bottled products

– Use short cooking and vacation videos in class

– Traditional recipes used at parties and celebrations.

There are a wide variety of other ideas that you can try with your foreign language learners that are related to food and recipe. One thing is for sure, everyone loves to eat, so food will always be a near and dear topic in the hearts of your students. So why not collect some of your favorite recipes to use in your classes soon?