Explore Our Curricula
Guide students as they engage with critical topics, such as food systems, food choices, and personal health!
These curricula address the interplay of biology, personal behavior, and many other factors in the U.S. food system. Our lessons and materials provide the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to effectively teach food and nutrition education.
Our curricula is designed for a wide range of educators, such as:
- K–12 educators
- Pre-service teachers in undergraduate or graduate programs
- Educators (paid or volunteer) who conduct gardening, cooking and other food and nutrition education
Explore, download, and/or purchase our curricula and resources.
The Tisch Food Center produces curricula independently and in collaboration with nonprofit food and nutrition education programs.
In Defense of Food
Students investigate the question, “What should I eat to be healthy?” and discover what Michael Pollan means by his now-famous guidelines: "Eat Food. Not Too Much. Mostly Plants." This curriculum is a companion to the PBS documentary In Defense of Food.
Designed for use in after-school programs for grades 6-8, but can be adapted for anyone age 10 or older.
Linking Food & Nutrition Education to Reading, Writing & Literacy
This resource begins to align the three reading curricula adopted in NYC Public Schools (Fall 2023) with food and nutrition education.
Currently, resources are available for grades K-3 and 4-6.
Linking Food & Nutrition to Science Education
Made specifically for NYC teachers, this guide provides lesson links and resources to help align food and nutrition-based lessons with the science education standards set forth in the NYC Science Scope and Sequence.
Designed for use in Pre-Kindergarten-8th grade.
Dance Breaks
Looking for an easy way to keep your students focused, energized, and productive? Try a Dance Break! These fun, short, instructional videos promote physical activity and foster a healthy, caring classroom environment.
Designed for use in any age group.
i2 Food Chemistry
This summer camp curriculum was created to help students discover connections between science, food systems, health, and social issues. It also provides students with the tools to advocate for food justice and support sustainable food systems.
Designed for use in grades 4-8.
Food Day
Inspire your students to eat more whole foods, cut back on processed foods, and advocate for a healthier community.
This curriculum is designed for use in grades 4-8, but is easily adaptable for older or younger students.
Growing Food - LiFE 1 Curriculum
"How does nature provide us with food?" — frames students' investigations as they learn about the cycling of matter and the flow of energy. Available in both English and Spanish.
Designed for use in grades 4-6.
Farm to Table & Beyond - LiFE 2 Curriculum
"What is the system that gets food from farm to table and how does this system affect the environment?" — frames students' investigations of our complex and highly technological global food system.
Designed for use in grades 5-6.
Choice, Control & Change - LiFE 3 Curriculum
"How can we use scientific evidence to help us make healthful food and activity choices?" — frames students' investigations of how the human body works and how food and activity play a crucial role in its well-being.
Designed for use in grades 6-8.