Making German a Piece of Cake

German lessons were a piece of cake for our Year 9 pupils today as they dove into the layers of language via a Schwarzwälderkirschtorte, or Black Forest Gateau.

Consisting of layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries soaked in kirsch brandy, the famous Black Forest cake provided fuel for pupils to practise their German conversation as they were required to discuss in German the recipe ingredients, ask for a slice and explain whether they enjoyed it or not.

Conversation also flowed around some of the other traditions from the Black Forest region, including how women in the region wear traditional hats called Bollenhüte (pompom hats) with large, prominent red balls (Bollen) that signify they are unmarried, while married women wear black ones, a tradition from villages like Gutach, Kirnbach, and Reichenbach. It is thought that these Bollen may be the reason why cherries are used in the gateau.

Well done to all of our Year 9 pupils, and thanks to our amazing staff who created this wonderful learning opportunity.