Encounters with our senses

Every week four new varieties of apples were presented to a group at the Leominster Meeting Centre (LMC). Initial chats about the apples included questions like –  Is it a big apple? Will it be juicy? Is the skin smooth or rough? Do you like the colour? What do you think it is called? Will you like eating it? The name and history of each variety of apple was also discussed using examples such as Russets, Northern Spy, Ducksbill, Herefordshire Quining and, Granny Smith. 

Then the tasting began, with a score chart to record marks out of ten. Everyone ate a slice and then gave the apple a mark out of ten. Preferences were discussed. Each tasting resulted in spirited arguments. Everyone enjoyed giving their opinions and disagreeing with one another. The opportunity to disagree, and even be rude to each in a friendly way created much laughing. People love to be naughty and this activity gave them permission to take some risks.

One volunteer continued to bring edible things from her garden for partipants to test and argue about for many weeks afterwards.