July 2024 School Newsletter
Welcome to the July edition of the Museum of Food and Culture School Newsletter! As we embark on the sunny summer days, our taste buds are tantalized by a delightful array of fun summer foods.
From the classic campfire treat of s'mores, with its endless varieties of marshmallows, chocolates, and graham crackers, to the cool indulgence of ice cream that sweetens our summer days, this season offers a feast for both the palate and the senses. Join us as we explore this delectable S’more and ponder accessibility in our journey through the fascinating world of food and culture.
Jump to: Idea for the Classroom | Educational Blog | Resources
S'mores
Idea for the Classroom
The origin of s'mores, a beloved North American campfire treat, traces back to the early 19th century. The first recorded recipe for "some mores" appeared in a 1927 publication by the Girl Scouts of America, highlighting the treat's deep roots in outdoor culture and community gatherings. The classic combination of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows evolved from simple campfire fare into a nostalgic symbol of summer nights and cozy fireside moments.
In North American culture, particularly in the United States and Canada, s'mores are deemed a popular treat often associated with camping, summer gatherings, and family traditions.
Over the decades, s'mores have transcended their rustic origins, inspiring a variety of adaptations and becoming a versatile treat enjoyed in diverse settings, from backyard barbecues to gourmet dessert menus.
Making and enjoying s'mores becomes a science lesson in the wild because it involves understanding and observing various physical and chemical changes. In addition, it is a great test of explaining the magic that happens when a s’more is cooking.
Check out ways in which S’mores brings to light a variety of scientific principles and ponder if S’mores are a basic ingredient in households.
Lesson 1: Building a Solar Oven.
Lesson 2: Explanatory S’mores
Lesson 3: A Walk in a Food Identity
It is important to note that leisure time, access to vacation destinations, and the cultural relevance of certain foods are not a given for everyone. Many communities face barriers that limit their ability to enjoy leisure travel and culinary experiences. Camping, in particular, has a predominantly white and middle to upper-class history. From segregation and concerns about safety to community perceptions, camping was not always accessible or acceptable for many families in the United States. When we talk about summer vacations and activities we must remember the politics of vacationing.
"There’s no problem too large that it can’t be solved by s’mores." -- Unknown
The Humble History of Camping Foods
Educational Article
Pancakes, Trout, and Other Campfire Foods
Exploring the world of S'mores and understanding the humble history of camping foods can be both educational and enjoyable through a variety of resources and activities. Click to access our blog all about interesting camping foods!
Resources
🚗 Lesson Plan | The Green Book and Jim Crow
✏️ Teacher Resources | The Hunger Gap & Food Insecurity
✊🏽 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | Food Insecurity in Colorado
🥛 Cafeteria Resources | Share Tables & The Fight Against Food Insecurity
⚖️ Scholarship | How Hunger Affects Learning
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