Introduction

A formal dinner table can be very confusing and intimidating if you have never seen one before. Which fork do I eat with? What plate do I use? What side does the cup go on? There are several rules for setting a formal dinner table. In this activity, you will practice setting up and eating at a formal dinner table.

Purpose

• Demonstrate how to use good manners

Time

This activity will 1-3 hours, depending on the meal.

Materials

• A meal
• Dinner plates
• Salad plates
• Bread plates
• Drinking glass
• Coffee cup
• Silverware

Directions

• Choose a recipe to cook for dinner or pick up dinner.
• Study how to set a formal dinner table.
• If the meal is prepared at home, practice setting the table while the food is cooking.
• Sit down to a formal dinner. Practice table manners such as no elbows on the table, no talking while eating, etc.

Other Information and Resources

• See how to set the table here.
• Place setting diagram for all meals.