Activity Overview
In this activity, students will compare and contrast food preparation and dining in medieval times to present day. Students will use a T-Chart with one side for a medieval feast, and the other for present day.
For example:
Medieval Times
"There were no forks, but napkins were provided. They shared goblets of wine, and between courses the Ewerer appeared with water for them to wash their fingers."
Present Day
We use forks, knives, spoons, and other utensils to eat. If we want to wash our hands we do so in a sink.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a T Chart comparing and contrasting eating and food preparation in medieval times with the present day.
- Click "Use This Template"
- Label one column "Medieval Times" and the other "Present Day"
- In each description box under "Medieval Times", describe the ways food was prepared and served according to the text.
- Create images for each description, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- In each description box under "Present Day", describe the way food is prepared and served now
- Create images for each description, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Click "Save & Exit" when done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Similarities | Student identifies and explains many of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the similarities between the two. |
| Differences | Student identifies and explains many of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the differences between the two. |
| Images | Images are clear and creative. | Most images are easy to understand, but at least two images do not fit. | Images are not easy to understand. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student makes few errors. | Student makes two or three errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
In this activity, students will compare and contrast food preparation and dining in medieval times to present day. Students will use a T-Chart with one side for a medieval feast, and the other for present day.
For example:
Medieval Times
"There were no forks, but napkins were provided. They shared goblets of wine, and between courses the Ewerer appeared with water for them to wash their fingers."
Present Day
We use forks, knives, spoons, and other utensils to eat. If we want to wash our hands we do so in a sink.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a T Chart comparing and contrasting eating and food preparation in medieval times with the present day.
- Click "Use This Template"
- Label one column "Medieval Times" and the other "Present Day"
- In each description box under "Medieval Times", describe the ways food was prepared and served according to the text.
- Create images for each description, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- In each description box under "Present Day", describe the way food is prepared and served now
- Create images for each description, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Click "Save & Exit" when done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Similarities | Student identifies and explains many of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the similarities between the two. |
| Differences | Student identifies and explains many of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the differences between the two. |
| Images | Images are clear and creative. | Most images are easy to understand, but at least two images do not fit. | Images are not easy to understand. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student makes few errors. | Student makes two or three errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about Compare and Contrasting Feasts
Introduce primary sources to enrich your feast comparisons
Boost engagement and deepen understanding by bringing in real historical materials for students to analyze. This helps students make authentic connections to the past and enhances critical thinking skills.
Select age-appropriate primary sources about medieval and modern feasts
Find short texts, images, or videos that show what eating was like in both eras. Choose resources that are easy to read and relate directly to your T-Chart topics.
Guide students to observe and discuss details from the sources
Encourage students to look closely at the materials and point out differences and similarities in food, utensils, and dining habits. Use guiding questions to prompt thoughtful observations.
Have students add new findings to their T-Charts
Ask students to record new details they discovered from the primary sources on their T-Chart. This enriches their comparisons and helps them practice using evidence.
Facilitate a class discussion to synthesize insights
Lead a brief whole-class conversation where students share what surprised them or stood out. This reinforces learning and builds oral communication skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Compare and Contrasting Feasts
How do I teach students to compare medieval and modern dining practices?
Start by creating a T-Chart with columns labeled Medieval Times and Present Day. Guide students to list differences and similarities in food preparation, serving methods, and utensils. Use visual aids and examples to help students understand each era's unique customs.
What is a T-Chart and how is it used in compare and contrast lessons?
A T-Chart is a graphic organizer with two columns that helps students visually compare two topics. In compare and contrast lessons, it allows students to organize similarities and differences side by side, making analysis clearer and more engaging.
What are some key differences between medieval and present-day feasts?
Medieval feasts often lacked forks, used shared goblets, and included finger washing between courses, while present-day meals use individual utensils and sinks for handwashing. Food preparation and serving styles have also modernized significantly.
Can you give examples of food preparation methods in medieval times versus today?
In medieval times, food was often roasted over open fires and served in large communal dishes, while present-day cooking uses stoves, ovens, and individual plates. The approach to hygiene and serving has also evolved.
What are some engaging activities to help students compare historical and modern feasts?
Use T-Charts, role-play, or drawing scenes from each era. Have students describe or illustrate how people ate, prepared food, and celebrated in both medieval and modern times to deepen understanding.
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