Moderator: Jacqui Shehorn, West Hills College Lemoore

Margaret Juncker and Carol Wilson, both of Misson College, presented a session entitled, “The Iron Chef,” which offered an opportunity for all attendees to mull over the question, “What’s for dinner?”

The assignment puts students in the shoes of restaurant reviewers. In groups they divide and conquer: atmosphere, service, and, of course, food. Each student prepares an evaluative essay addressing one of these components. As a group they present their impressions of the restaurant.

Audience is of particular importance as students are directed to consider whether customers, corporate, managers, or employees would be best served by their evaluation.

This session provided all attendees an opportunity to discuss different aspects of this assignment and how they might be applied in a variety of classes. Juncker and Wilson discussed the assignment process in detail, which allowed the group to see how different writing goals are met through this assignment.

An outstanding conversation rounded out the session. All attendees contributed ideas about ways to use “The Iron Chef” assignment in a variety of classrooms. This lively and engaging discussion wrapped up as everyone turned to the sample presentation boards students had created to accompany their presentations.