The Russians

The Russian Empire has been one of the most powerful empires of Europe but is sill very unknown to us Westerners. What we know today about Russia is what we remember from the Cold War, rather than the greatness of the Russian culture. Here are some activities to introduce your students to the Russian culture.

1. Trivia

Did you know? People in Siberia often buy milk frozen on a stick.

Did you know? It is a criminal offence to drive around in a dirty car in Russia.

Did you know? The great Russian leader, Lenin died 21 January 1924, suffering from a degenerative brain disorder. At the time of his death his brain was a quarter of its normal size.

Did you know? The Russian mystic, Rasputin, was the victim of a series of murder attempts on this day in 1916. The assassins poisoned, shot and stabbed him in quick succession, but they found they were unable to finish him off. Rasputin finally succumbed to the ice-cold waters of a river.

Did you know? St Nicholas, the original Father Christmas, is the patron saint of thieves, virgins and Russia.

2. Recipe - With a Bread Machine

If ever you have the opportunity to use a kitchen in your school with your students, it can be really fun to finish a chapter or to celebrate any event.
Roman Cookies

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 2 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1 cup rye flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons margarine
• 2 tablespoons dark corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
• 1 tablespoon caraway seed
• 1/4 teaspoon fennel seed (optional)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

DIRECTIONS

1. Place ingredients into the bread machine in order suggested by the manufacturer.
2. Use the whole wheat, regular crust setting.
3. After the baking cycle ends, remove bread from pan, place on a cake rack, and allow to cool for 1 hour before slicing.

3. Links

Awesome website for Russian fairy tales, traditions and recipes! Excellent!!!
http://russian-crafts.com/tales.html