Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify at least three factors influencing food choices in Ghana.
• Analyze how cultural beliefs and economic status impact diet.
• Evaluate personal food choices and suggest healthier alternatives.
• Demonstrate critical thinking about different diets.

Lesson summary

This lesson explores the various reasons behind the foods we decide to eat every day. Our food choices are not random; they are influenced by a complex web of factors, from the money in our pockets to the traditions of our families and the advertisements we see on TV. For a student in Ghana, understanding these factors is crucial for making informed, healthy decisions that can prevent lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension, manage personal finances, and appreciate the rich cultural diversity of our nation. By analysing these influences, we can gain control over our diet and improve our overall well-being.

Lesson notes

The decision to eat a plate of `waakye` in the morning, `kenkey` for lunch, or `fufu` for supper is rarely based on a single reason. Let's break down the key factors that influence these choices. A. Personal Factors

These are influences that come from within an individual. Taste and Preference: This is the most basic factor. We tend to eat foods we enjoy the taste and texture of. Someone might choose `kelewele` because they love the spicy-sweet flavour, while another person might dislike it. Health and Physiological Needs: A person's health status significantly impacts their diet. Example: An athlete preparing for a competition will choose foods high in carbohydrates like yam or rice for energy. A person diagnosed with hypertension will be advised to eat foods low in salt, avoiding things like `koobi` (salted tilapia). A pregnant woman needs more iron and may eat more `kontomire` (cocoyam leaves). Knowledge and Beliefs: What you know or believe about food affects your choices. If you have learned in class that fruits and vegetables prevent diseases, you are more likely to include them in your diet. Conversely, some people might have misconceptions, like believing that eating eggs increases cholesterol to a dangerous level, and avoid them. Psychological and Emotional Needs: Food is often linked to feelings. Example: After a stressful day of exams, a student might crave a comforting food like a bowl of `tom brown` porridge or a meat pie. This is often called "comfort eating." Habits: We are creatures of habit. If you have eaten `gari` and beans (`gɔbɛ`) every Saturday for lunch since you were a child, you are likely to continue that routine. B. Economic Factors

This category relates to money and resources. For many Ghanaians, this is the most powerful influence. Cost of Food: The price of food items directly determines what most people can afford. Example: When plantain is in season and cheap, a family might eat it several times a week. When the price shoots up, they will switch to a more affordable carbohydrate like cassava or maize. Income Level: The amount of money a person or family earns dictates their food budget. A high-income family may afford to buy expensive imported cereals, apples, and fresh meat regularly. A low-income family will rely more on staple foods like `gari`, maize, and cassava, which are cheaper and more filling. Availability: You can only eat what you can find and afford in your local market. Example: People living in coastal towns like Axim or Elmina have easier access to fresh fish at a lower cost than people living in the Upper West Region. Similarly, yams are more available and cheaper in the northern and middle belts of Ghana than in some coastal areas. C. Social and Cultural Factors

These are influences from the people and society around us. Family and Peers: Family is where we learn our first food habits. Your parents' cooking style and meal patterns heavily influence your own. Example: Many Ghanaian families have a tradition of eating `fufu` or `omo tuo` (rice balls) on Sundays. As a teenager, you might be influenced by your friends to try a new brand of pizza or noodles that is popular among them. Culture and Tradition: Food is a central part of Ghanaian culture. Example: During the Homowo festival, the Ga people prepare a special food called `Kpokpoi`. During the Damba festival in the north, special meals are also prepared. These are not everyday choices but are dictated by cultural celebration. Religion: Religious doctrines can specify what followers should eat or avoid. Example: Muslims do not eat pork and only consume meat that is Halal. Seventh-Day Adventists often follow a vegetarian diet. During the season of Lent, many Christians may fast or abstain from eating meat on certain days. Social Status: In some cases, food choices are used to signify social standing. Eating at expensive restaurants, buying imported groceries, or serving certain types of drinks at an event can be seen as a status symbol. D. Environmental and Geographical Factors

Evaluation guide

• Analyse the factors that affect food choices.
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Learners engage in thorough thinking as
• understanding
• reasoning