Food System Curriculum

At The Food Project we have created a number of activities to teach young people about the food system. Here are some of our most popular curricula.  For more games and ways to introduce young people to the global food system please see our book, French Fries and the Food System.

Dollars & Sense (click here for PDF)
Demonstrates how food dollars are distributed through the food system.  Participants split into groups to see how transportation, advertising, packaging etc. affect the price of a can of tomato sauce.  45 minutes long, requires a large amount of pennies, baggies, glass jars with labels.  Worksheet included.

Show Me the Money (click here for PDF)
Allows participants to understand the decisions that farmers must make in order to stay in business, and how government actions can impact these decisions.  Requires 1.5 to 2 hours and multiple facilitators to play several roles throughout.  Worksheets, handouts and scenarios included.

Local Food Economy (click here for PDF)
Illustrates the factors that impact consumer decisions in choosing between local vs. global food and stores, organic vs. conventionally-produced produce, and convenience vs. quality.  Players shop for items to make a spaghetti dinner, then discuss the true costs hidden in our food system (economic, health, environmental).  Requires play money, advance material preparation.  Total workshop time: roughly one hour.  Handouts and worksheets included.

Your Favorite Meal (click here for PDF) 
Introduces the idea of a food system, using young people’s favorite meals as a way to start thinking about where our food comes from and how it is produced.  Total workshop time: roughly one hour.

Chair for Everyone (click here for PDF)
A short activity that demonstrates how the world’s resources are distributed.  Best for group sizes in multiple of 5 (i.e. 5 people, 10 people, etc.)