Hi everyone! I’m Roland, your English and Dutch language tutor, and this week I’m diving into a topic close to my heart—American culture, specifically the flavors of fall: pumpkin spice and apple pie. But there’s more to these treats than just food—they hold cultural meaning that can help you better understand and connect with the language.

The Cultural Story Behind Pumpkin Spice and Apple Pie

If you’ve ever been to the U.S. during the fall, you’ve likely seen (or smelled) the obsession with pumpkin spice everything. From lattes to cookies, this flavor dominates for a few months each year. But where does the obsession come from? For many Americans, pumpkin spice is more than just a flavor—it’s a symbol of the changing seasons, the coziness of autumn, and even nostalgia for family gatherings around Thanksgiving.

And then there’s apple pie—an iconic American dessert. You’ve probably heard the saying, "as American as apple pie." This dessert represents more than just a sweet treat; it stands for the idea of tradition, comfort, and what many consider to be quintessential American values. It’s often served during national holidays like Thanksgiving and the 4th of July, making it a cultural symbol of celebration and togetherness.

Bringing Culture into Language Learning

You might wonder, what does pumpkin spice or apple pie have to do with language learning? Well, a lot, actually! Language and culture are inseparable, and understanding the cultural nuances behind common phrases, traditions, and even foods can give you a deeper connection to the language.

For my students learning English, especially those interested in American culture, discussing things like pumpkin spice or apple pie opens the door to more natural, engaging conversations. We can talk about fall traditions, holidays like Thanksgiving, and even explore the ways Americans use food to express comfort and nostalgia. These conversations not only improve your fluency but also help you connect more meaningfully with the language.

How I Incorporate Culture into My Lessons

As someone who lived in the U.S. for 28 years, I love sharing these kinds of cultural stories in my English lessons. It’s not just about learning the grammar and vocabulary (though that’s important too!), but also about understanding the contextbehind the language. Why do Americans love pumpkin spice? Why is apple pie considered so "American"? These little insights make the language come to life in a way that textbook learning can’t always provide.

For my Dutch students, I also enjoy comparing Dutch and American traditions, which often leads to fun, cross-cultural conversations. For example, in the Netherlands, while fall doesn’t revolve around pumpkin spice, there’s a focus on other seasonal flavors, like speculaas (spiced cookies) that also carry rich cultural significance.

A Quick Cultural Challenge for You

If you’re up for it, here’s a fun challenge: Try to describe your favorite seasonal tradition in English (or Dutch, if you’re learning that with me). What foods, activities, or traditions make this time of year special for you? Whether it’s pumpkin spice, apple pie, or something completely different, practicing language around familiar, cultural topics is a great way to build fluency.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re interested in learning English or Dutch through real-life conversations about culture, food, and everyday experiences, I’d love to help you out! Together, we’ll work on making the language not just something you study, but something you experience.