Over the past two weeks, the Seventh Grade Social Studies classes have been working on an African Country Project. This research project had the students looking at different aspects of life within each country. The students have been researching about the forms of government their countries have, the various cultures and traditions, the
currencies used and the exchange rates to the U.S. Dollar, as well as the native animals. This project culminates in a presentation to the class by each group. Several students in the past have used pop culture in their presentations. For example, some students used the movie Madagascar to augment their presentation on their country, Madagascar.  Others created songs to go along with their presentation or cultural dances.

  To wrap up our African Country Project, the students had the opportunity to look back at some of the cultures and traditions of their country, specifically food.  On February 13, the students who wanted to bring in some of their country's food to share with the class were able to do so. They could either buy the items (if possible) or make them
from scratch. We indulged in foods like South African Koeksisters and peppermint tart, Moroccan couscous, baklava, and mint tea, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) tapioca, Gabonian fried bananas, Tanzanian Mandazi (doughnut), and many others the students chose to bring in. By the end of the day, I was thinking I would fall into a fried food coma! I am always excited to see what my classes will bring in for this fifth annual African food day. Thank you to all of the parents/guardians that helped cook and bake and allowed their students to participate in this fun day.