盘中餐 Rice

Where does our food come from? Who had to work hard so that we have food to eat on our table? Why should we not waste food?

In this story, the author shows how a single grain of rice gets its life, and uses record of observations and science to explain the process involved before dinner arrives on your table. This is especially suitable for children who have never lived in the country and grow up unaware of what farming entails. It may also help children better appreciate that what comes easy to them now, was the hard work of many that came before them.

Recommended for Ages: 4-12
Pages: 40
Format: Hardcover
Language: Simplified Chinese
Author: 于虹呈

Conversation Starters:

1. Where does our food come from?
2. Who had to work hard so that we have food to eat on our table?
3. Why should we not waste food?

Possible extension activities:

1. Science experiment: Add different amounts of water to rice and steam. What do you get? (Rice and Porridge)
2. Practical Life Activity: Wash Rice
3. Kitchen fun: Learn a new rice recipe eg Yangzhou Fried Rice
4. Chinese culture: Explore how rice is used in 粽子, 汤圆.
5. Read 《悯农》 by 李 绅
6. Watch videos on how rice is planted
7. Go to the supermarket / check supermarket catalogue to find out different kinds of rice

♫ Listen to 盘中餐 being read aloud on Ximalaya ♫