Chapulines

High school (ages 12+)
Food & Cooking

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/chapulines

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific taxonomy?Genus Sphenarium. This genus encompasses the grasshoppers commonly referred to as chapulines
2. What is the etymological origin?Nahuatl language (chapolin). The term reflects the indigenous linguistic heritage of Mexico
3. When do people collect chapulines?They are collected from early May through late summer and early autumn, when the grasshoppers hatch and are most plentiful.
4. Why are chapulines popular in Oaxaca?In Oaxaca, chapulines are a traditional snack sold at events, and they provide a tasty, protein-rich food that many people enjoy.

Entomophagy: The practice of eating insects, a significant and ancient dietary tradition in many cultures, including Mexico.
Nahuatl: An indigenous language of central Mexico, from which the word 'chapulin' is derived, indicating deep historical roots.
Comal: A traditional, flat, circular griddle made of clay or metal, used for cooking tortillas, toasting grains, and preparing chapulines.
Botana: A Spanish term for a snack or appetizer, often served with drinks, highlighting the social aspect of consuming chapulines.