CBC Archives

Explain that there are food items and food names that are unique to Canada or have originated in Canada. Ask students to name some of these foods. Validate their suggestions.

Show a photo of a jelly-filled doughnut. Ask students what they call it. If everyone agrees and gives only one name, ask what they think it might be called in other places. Explain that throughout Canada, the same foods are often given different names.

Direct students to the topic A Taste of Canada: Our Homegrown Cuisine on the CBC Digital Archives website. Have students view the clips Traditional native food , What's in a name?, What makes a great butter tart? and Quintessential Canadian cuisine and read the background notes for clips #2 to #7 and #10. On the download sheet Only in Canada, students record various foods that originate in Canada. Ask students to record the various names given to the same foods in different parts of Canada.

Ask students to form small groups. Have each group create a visual that reflects the uniqueness of Canadian foods and the varying names for foods across the country.

Have each group present its visual. Hold a class vote to determine which food they consider the most unique to Canada and which regional name they think is the most interesting for a food item. Ask students what unique foods or food names from their region they think could be added to the information they found.

Assessment Tip
Students can reflect on their learning by considering which Canadian food item they like best, the most unusual food name they found, and a new food or recipe they would like to try.

Students can select another country and research food items or recipes that are unique to that country. Consider trying one of the foods or recipes.