At Silicon Valley International School (INTL), celebrating the French tradition of Taste Week (La Semaine du Goût) provides the school with a week-long exploration of food, culture, and the educational value of culinary discovery. Taste Week has been a cherished part of INTL’s curriculum since 2003. More than just a week of delicious flavors, Taste Week serves as a unique opportunity for students from all three of INTL’s bilingual immersion programs (Chinese, French, and German) to engage in hands-on learning, explore global cultures, and deepen their understanding of food science, nutrition, and multiculturalism.
One of the hallmarks of Taste Week is the way it engages all five senses. Whether it’s the savory aroma of freshly baked bread, the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables, or the unique textures of exotic dishes, the event allows students to experience food in a holistic way. From the youngest students in the Early Years program up through the INTL High School, everyone participates in activities that challenge their taste buds and encourage them to try new flavors.
For younger students, Taste Week is often an introduction to the diverse world of food. Classroom activities might include tasting sessions, where students sample foods from different countries and learn about their origins. It’s not uncommon for children to try foods they’ve never encountered before—whether it's Turkish borek, Japanese sushi, or Mexican tamales. This sensory exploration helps develop their palate and encourages an openness to new experiences, a valuable skill that extends far beyond the world of food.
At INTL, food serves as more than just nourishment—it’s a bridge to understanding global cultures. Taste Week allows students to explore the world through food, promoting cultural appreciation and fostering a sense of global citizenship. By learning the stories behind the dishes they try, students gain a deeper understanding of the history, traditions, and values of different cultures.
This year was an exciting journey for INTL students of all ages exploring different aspects of food and culture. One noteworthy activity had 4th Grade students experimenting with the diverse tastes of water and drinks, making their own extravagant mocktails. 5th Grade students indulged in a study of chocolate, blind-tasting and identifying different varieties. Each of these activities and others around the school encouraged students to connect with food in meaningful ways, celebrating global traditions and enriching their sensory awareness.
Taste Week is more than a culinary adventure—it’s an interdisciplinary educational experience supported by INTL’s inquiry-based learning philosophy. Teachers across all grade levels integrate food into their lessons, using cooking and tasting as hands-on learning opportunities. Students might explore the chemical reactions that occur during baking or study the role of yeast in making bread rise. By following a recipe, students learn to measure ingredients and calculate fractions. Little ones can practice fine motor control by trying to measure flour without spilling it.
Another key aspect of Taste Week is the way it brings the INTL community together. Parents play a vital role in the celebration, often volunteering to share dishes from their home countries or assist with special food-related events. A highlight of the week is Taste Day, where all the students, faculty, and staff gather for a special lunch served by parent volunteers. This communal meal is a celebration of the diversity and richness of global cuisine and a testament to the strong bonds that food can create.
Taste Week has become an integral part of INTL’s commitment to providing a well-rounded, inquiry-based education. The event nurtures a lifelong appreciation for healthy eating, cultural diversity, and sensory exploration. Lessons like these are mixed into INTL’s recipe for education, ensuring that students leave with not only a solid academic foundation but also a deep understanding of the world around them. It’s a tradition that continues to inspire and delight, offering a delicious approach to learning that extends far beyond the classroom.