Activities for Grades 3 - 5 Archives

Explore lessons and fun activities for students in grades 3-5 that bring the growing process to life in the classroom and at home.

Here you’ll find lessons, activities, videos, and other resources related to gardening, for students in grades 3-5. No matter if you are a teacher, parent, kid, or kid at heart, all are hands-on, experiential, and fun! We worked closely with Louisiana educators to identify only the best lessons for teachers and link them to Louisiana State Curriculum Standards.

Beets & Carrots:

Lessons and Activities

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Carrots Classroom Connections

Includes two lessons: Pickling Carrots (Science) and Carrot Life Cycle Stories (English).

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1

Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program: Carrot Worksheets

Taste-test worksheets for carrots along with coloring sheets and other lessons organized by grade level.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		WHST-3.2

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Beets Classroom Connections

Includes three lessons: Painting with Beet Juice (Art), Measuring Beets (Math), and Sprout a Beet (Science).

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1				VA-CE-E4

New Hampshire Harvest of the Month: Beets and Rutabagas Harvest Lessons

A variety of lessons to explore, taste, and learn about beets.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		3-SL-1 4-SL-1 5-SL-1	3.19

California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom: Carrots

A fact and activity sheet on carrots. Grow boxes are used where the soil is in poor condition or where weather is such that it is difficult to grow crops. Pilgrims used grow boxes on the Mayflower. Students will grow carrots in grow boxes and record growth and other observations in a journal.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A.1 4.MD.A.1	3-LS1-1

Oregon Harvest for Schools: Carrot Compare

Working with food service staff, a local farmer, or a trip to the farmers market, gather a variety of carrots for your class to measure and compare. Try to find out where the carrots were grown, variety names, and any other information that might be of interest to your students. Working in teams, students will measure weight, length, and diameter of carrots.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A.1 4.MD.A.1

Kids Gardening: Vegetable Carving

Carving vegetables is a great way to promote creativity, hone fine motor skills, and learn about global cultures. It can also be a fun way to get kids interested in trying out new foods, and to create festive decorations. Check out this fun activity and let your students explore different root vegetables through vegetable carving!

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
					k-4 VA-CE-E2 VA-CE-E4 VA-AP-E2 VA-AP-E4 VA-AP-E6 VA-HP-E1 VA-HP-E4 5-8 VA-CE-M4 VA-CE-M5 VA-AP-M2 VA-AP-M3 VA-AP-M6 VA-HP-M1 VA-HP-M2 VA-HP-M4 VA-HP-M5 9-12 VA-CE-H3 VA-CE-H4 VA-CE-H5 VA-AP-H2 VA-AP-H4 VA-AP-H6 VA-HP-H1 VA-HP-H2 VA-HP-H4

FoodMASTER: Vegetables

Students will learn about the nutrition and science of cooking vegetables. In class, they will make a healthy snack, test acid and bases in vegetable cooking, and try out their scientific soup. At home, they can learn how to cook carrots and make Silly Chili. Teacher Edition Student Edition

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.1	4-LS1-1 5-PS1-3 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3, RI.4.1,2,3 RI.5.2,3 WS.3.2,8 WS.4.2,4,8 WS.5.2,4, 8 SL.3.1,2,3,4,6 SL.4. 1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3,4

Edible Schoolyard: Seed Sleuth

In this activity, students will observe and compare seeds to match which vegetables are related to each other. Using the Seed Sleuth Chart, ask students to observe the size, shape, and color of the seeds to classify the vegetable into its plant family. For example, when comparing pepper, tomato, and eggplant seeds, students realize that they are very similar and that these vegetables belong to the same plant family. To take this lesson further, students can research plant families. Finally, students can expand their vocabulary through this activity, learning the definition of “sleuth” and “taxonomy.” Seed Sleuth Slides

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Kids Gardening: Eat a Rainbow

This lesson teaches the importance of “eating a rainbow” (a variety of fruits and vegetables). Students will learn about the health benefits of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. Students will learn the different parts of a plant and that they need to consume at least 5 fruits and vegetables a day. They will also discover how color can indicate different nutrients available in fruits and vegetables.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 W.3.1, 4, 7,10 W.4.1, 4,7,10 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3, 4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

New Hampshire Harvest of the Month: Carrots

Harvest lessons provide a fun way for classrooms to explore, taste, and learn about carrots. Students will observe different carrot varieties and conduct a taste test. They will also learn about the history of carrots and experiment with sprouting a carrot.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.3,4	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1	RL.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3	3.1 3.7 3.19 4.1	3rd 1-E-2.1,2,4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 4th 1-E-2.2,4 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.2 5th 1-E-3.3 7-E-1.2

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Beets & Rutabaga

Harvest lessons provide a fun way for classrooms to explore, taste, and learn about eating more fruits and vegetables. Included are lessons covering a variety of subjects including nutrition, measurement, graphing, dyeing paper with beet juice, structures of plants, and mapping the origins of beets and rutabaga.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.3,4	3-LS3-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3	3.1 3.7 3.19 4.1	3rd 1-E-2.1,2,4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 4th 1-E-2.2,4 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.2 5th 1-E-3.3 7-E-1.2

Beets & Carrots:

Videos and Other Resources

GroVeg: Growing Carrots from Sowing to Harvest

A how-to video on growing carrots, from sowing to harvest. (6:20)

Leaves and Petals: Growing Beet Greens from Beet Tops

A short-time lapse video covering the growth of beet greens. (1:33)

Bring Back the Farm: Farm to Fork Time-Lapse of Beets

A short-time lapse video covering the growth of beets. (2:06)

TESCO: Crunchy Carrots: from Farm to Fork

Watch this video to see the farm-to-fork journey of carrots, from ideal growing conditions to harvesting and production, ready for you to buy in the shops. (3:49)

True Food TV: Purple Carrots or Orange: Who’s the Daddy?

Short video on the origin of the different-colored carrots. (1:08)

How to Grow Carrot Tops

A short-time lapse video covering the growth of carrot tops. (6:39)

Growing Beet Greens from Beet Tops: Time-Lapse

A short-time lapse video covering the growth of beet greens. (1:33)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Carrot Brochure

Brochure containing carrot facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Carrot Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Iowa Department of Public Health: Pick a Better Snack Fact Sheets – Carrots

This site has a colorful printable fact sheet on carrots.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Beet Brochure

Brochure containing beet facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Beet Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

California Harvest of the Month: Beet Botanical Image

This site includes a colorful diagram of the anatomy of a beet for student research.

Beets & Carrots:

Books

Carrot Soup by John Segal (2006)

Take one rabbit, patiently growing carrots. Add his friends -- Mole, Dog, Cat, Duck, and Pig. Mix all ingredients together for a superdelicious surprise!

The Magic Beet by Kiya Kahl (2020)

Clementine is quirky and sentimental. She loves gardening with her Grammy and has a deep connection to a ring that was given to her by her Grampy. While losing herself in all the beautiful colors of the garden, Clementine also loses her most prized possession. Despite her sadness, Clementine learns to be patient and to remain hopeful. One day, it all pays off when she harvests "THE MAGIC BEET."

Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson (2016)

This charming and lovingly illustrated children's book by acclaimed author Katy Hudson ("A Loud Winter's Nap" and "Bear and Duck") shows how friendships get us over the rough spots in life, even if the going gets a little bumpy. "Too Many Carrots" is the perfect springtime, Eastertime, and anytime gift.

Tops & Bottoms by Janet Stevens (1995)

Hare solves his family’s problems by tricking rich and lazy Bear in this funny, energetic version of an old slave story. With roots in American slave tales, "Tops & Bottoms" celebrates the trickster tradition of using one’s wits to overcome hardship.

book_cover_Tops_and_Bottoms_Janet_Stevens

Blueberries:

Lessons and Activities

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Berries

A variety of lessons to explore, taste, and learn about berries.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		WS-3-2 WS-4-2 WS-5-2

New Hampshire Harvest of the Month: Berries Harvest Lessons

A variety of lessons to explore, taste, and learn about berries.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1

Oregon Harvest for Schools: Extracting Colors

Adapt this lesson from NOVA to explore plant-based pigments and the creation of ink with students. In this activity, students will use natural ingredients from well-known foods to make four different dyes and will investigate the pigments responsible for creating the colors in those dyes.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1			VA-CE-E4

National Ag in the Classroom: FoodMASTER Fruits

Students will identify fruits that grow on a tree, bush, or vine. They will also classify fruits as pome, drupe, berry, melon, or citrus. Expand this lesson by performing an experiment on the browning of fruit or learn how to dry plums to make prunes.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Kids Gardening: Exploring Food Preservation

Students learn why and how fresh food can be preserved for later consumption. By exploring preservation methods, both ancient and modern, students can appreciate the climatic and survival challenges faced by people in different places and eras. This lesson includes a easy recipe for Triple Berry Freezer Jam to make in the classroom or at home.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	5-PS1-2,3,4	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3	4.3	3rd 7-E-3.3

Super Healthy Kids: Nutrition Education Game

A game that teaches students about the nutritional value in different-colored fruits and vegetables. Students create a healthy smoothie by rolling teacher-made dice. Each side is a different color, and with each roll of the dice students recite the fruits and vegetables found in those colors and the nutrients found in them. Then, students add two fruits or vegetables to the blender. For example, if the student rolls blue and red, the response could be: Blue foods help our brains; they are high in the nutrients anthocyanin and phenolics. Red foods are high in a nutrient called lycopene as well as anthocyanin and vitamins A and C; red foods are beneficial because they control high blood pressure, reduce the risk of cancer, and reduce the risks of losing your memory. Then, students may add a blueberry and a strawberry to their smoothie.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.3.1,3 SL.4.1,3 SL.5.1,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.3 4th Grade 1-E-2.1 7-E-1.2 5th Grade 7-E-1.2

Kids Gardening: Eat a Rainbow

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 W.3.1, 4, 7,10 W.4.1, 4,7,10 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3, 4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

Life Lab: Garden Pollinators

This third-grade curriculum includes 5 lessons on pollinators and their adaptations, including adaptation stations. Examining the diversity of pollinators in the garden and their role in the ecosystem provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn about the mechanisms of adaptation. The student sheets and other resources for these lessons are in the last section of this booklet. These lessons also address three fourth-grade standards.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1 3-LS3-2 3-LS4-2 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 4-LS1-2 4-ESS2-3	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3 W.3.2 W.4.2 W.5.2

Upper Valley Farm to School Harvest Lessons: Berries

Harvest lessons provide a fun way for classrooms to explore, taste, and learn about eating more fruits and vegetables. Included are lessons covering a variety of subjects including geography, nutrition, reading and listening comprehension, measurement and graphing.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1	RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4	3.28	3RD GRADE 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,3 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 7-E-1.1,2 7-E-2.2

Blueberries:

Videos and Other Resources

Naturipe: Blueberry Harvesting Process

A virtual field trip to a blueberry orchard and processing plant. Students will see how blueberries are grown, harvested (by hand and machine), and processed. (2:52)

True Food TV: Blueberry | How Does It Grow?

Besides showing how the blueberry grows today, this video gives an excellent history of the blueberry. (10:47)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Blueberry Brochure

Brochure containing blueberry facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Blueberry Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

5 Superfoods That Actually Live Up to Their Hype

Everyone has heard that blueberries are one of the "super fruits." This informative article for teachers and students explains the five superfoods, including the blueberry.

Medical News Today: Everything You Need to Know about Blueberries

Informative background information for teachers on blueberry facts and nutrition.

How to Eat a Rainbow: 5 Shades of Nutrients

Informative article for teachers and students on what it means to “Eat a Rainbow.”

Blueberries:

Books

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

Berries, apples, melons, and grapes; oranges, grapefruits, bananas -- yum! This scrumptious picture book, a companion to The Vegetables We Eat, offers youngsters an inviting, information-packed cornucopia of favorite fruits.

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

Readers will learn how fruits and designed to protect a plant's seeds and also to help the plant spread its seeds to new place. With prose perfect for read-alouds and gorgeous watercolor illustrations, Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds delves into the world of seeds, their purpose, and how they grow

Mr. Astley’s Blueberries by Kelly Jenkins Lin (2012)

Mr. Astley lives at the end of a long, winding lane, just right for blueberries. But it takes more than a sunny yard to grow blueberries. For Mr. Astley, it takes a lot of hard work and patience, even in winter when most people only dream of blueberries. But the blueberry patch can be full of wonderful--truly amazing--surprises, too. Follow Mr. Astley as he works in his blueberry patch all year long and see why his blueberries really are the best blueberries yet!

Jamberry by Bruce Degen (1995)

This classic book features a berry-loving boy and an endearing rhyme-spouting bear. The fun wordplay and bright paintings with lots of details for young readers to explore make "Jamberry" a perennial favorite. A small boy and a big friendly bear embark on a berry-picking extravaganza, looking for blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries. Their fun adventure comes to a razzamatazz finale under a star-berry sky.

Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey (1948)

This classic children’s book tells the story of a mother and daughter blueberry picking, who encounter a mother bear and pair of cubs feasting on berries in the same patch. Sal’s mother tells her not to eat all the berries so they can store some for winter, but Sal has a hard time following that direction. The bears meanwhile are feasting before a long winter rest. In the story we learn that the mother bear tells her young to eat all they can before winter comes. Follow this story with discussion of storage of berries through the winter. How is the human family different from the bear family in its needs and in the ways of storing this precious food? Reading Level: K-4.

book_cover_Blueberries_For_Sal_Robert_McCloskey

Broccoli & Cauliflower:

Lessons and Activities

Party in the Art Room: Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli

Clear directions to create this fun art project based on Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli by Barbara Jean Hicks (2014).

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
					VA-CE-E4

Oregon Harvest for Schools: How Many Veggies Should I Eat?

Cauliflower can be eaten in a variety of ways - fresh, cooked, cooked from frozen, or even pureed. All forms count toward the USDA’s daily recommended amount of vegetables. The amount each person needs depends on age, gender, and physical activity level. Have students visit the USDA’s MyPlate website to find out how many vegetables they need to eat each day - and also to learn how fruits and vegetables are part of a healthy diet.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		RI.3.5 SL.3.4 RI.4.7 SL.4.2 RI.5.7 SL.5.4

Oregon Harvest for Schools: Broccoli Beats

Play “I Feel Good” by James Brown and ask students to describe how James Brown could have adapted his classic soul song to be about broccoli. Share facts from the Louisiana Harvest of the Month Broccoli poster with students to get students thinking about the many benefits eating broccoli can have for our bodies.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
				1-E-4.2	M-CE-E1 M-CE-E5

FoodMASTER: Vegetables

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.1	4-LS1-1 5-PS1-3 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3, RI.4.1,2,3 RI.5.2,3 WS.3.2,8 WS.4.2,4,8 WS.5.2,4, 8 SL.3.1,2,3,4,6 SL.4. 1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3,4

Drexel University: Go for the Green!

In this lesson students will learn the importance of vegetables in their diet and their relationship to health. Then, they will prepare and taste a healthy snack.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		RI.3.7 RI.4.4,7 RI.5.4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 6-E1.1 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom: Bring on the Brassica Veggies

Students will learn about Brassica vegetables through several activities, which include testing recipes using Brassica vegetables and determining their favorites. The provided readings will introduce students to the health benefits of various vegetables in the Brassica family and other facts such as the origin of different Brassica vegetables.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3		Grade 4- 7-E-1.1	VA-CE-E4

California Harvest of the Month: Broccoli

This Harvest of the Month newsletter has activities that give students the opportunity to explore, taste, and learn about the importance of eating broccoli, as well as its origins and how it grows. The newsletter also includes activities that introduce students to phytochemicals and folate.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 1-E-2.2,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2 7-E-1.2 5TH GRADE 1-E-2.2

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Broccoli & Cauliflower

A collection of information and activities including taste tests, mapping the origin of broccoli, a true/false fact game, and a Brassica matching game.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.A.1 3.G.A.2	3-LS3-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.3 4th grade 1-E-2.2 1-E-2.4 7-E-1.2 5th grade 7-E-1.2

Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program: Broccoli Worksheets

Student worksheets include a broccoli taste test guide, broccoli poetry, broccoli nutrition, and other activities.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.3		RI.3.1 RI.4.7 SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.3 4th grade 1-E-2.2 1-E-2.4 7-E-1.2 5th grade 7-E-1.2

Kids Gardening: Eat a Rainbow

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 W.3.1, 4, 7,10 W.4.1, 4,7,10 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3, 4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

Broccoli & Cauliflower:

Videos and Other Resources

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Cauliflower Brochure

Brochure containing cauliflower facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Cauliflower Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Iowa Ingredient: Growing Cauliflower

A how-to video for growing cauliflower, from seed to harvest. (4:16)

Upper Valley Farm to School Network – Harvesting Broccoli and Cauliflower

This video explains that the parts of broccoli and cauliflower plants that we eat are flower buds and stems and discusses the nutrients that these plants provide for us. (4:33)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Broccoli Brochure

Brochure containing broccoli facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Broccoli Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Learning About Broccoli

This is a short video demonstrating that we eat the flower buds of the broccoli plant. (1:07)

Bonnie Plants: How to Plant Broccoli Plants

A short informational video on how to plant broccoli and other cole crops. (1:14)

True Food TV: Foods That Are Actually EDIBLE FLOWERS

Even though we call them fruits and vegetables, everything from cauliflower to broccoli, artichoke to fig, are really their plants' flowers. (1:41)

True Food TV: Cauliflower | How Does It Grow?

This video discusses the origin of cauliflower, explains that a cauliflower is a bouquet of flowers, and takes you to a commercial farm to demonstrate how they grow cauliflower. (4:03)

Broccoli Pedigree | PBS

A short video vignette on why we have never stumbled across a wild broccoli. (1:58)

Broccoli & Cauliflower:

Books

Green Power: Leaf & Flower Vegetables (Plants We Eat) by Meredith Sayles Hughes (2001)

Describes the history, growing requirements, uses, and food value of various leafy green vegetables and vegetable flowers, including cabbage, broccoli, artichokes, spinach, Belgian endive, and lettuce. Includes recipes.

The Vegetables We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2008)

A fun and informative book all about vegetables, how they are grown, and which parts we eat. A great book to show kids the difference between “leaf” vegetables, “bulbs,” “flower buds,” and more. Different sections of the book could be read to highlight different themes: how vegetables grow, what parts of vegetables we eat, how to grow your own vegetable garden, and more.

book_cover_The_Vegetables_We_Eat_Gail_Gibbons

There’s Broccoli in my Ice Cream! By Emily MacKenzie (2017)

A story about a Dalmatian named Granville who likes to eat everything but fruits and vegetables. Ages: 5 and up.

book_cover_Theres_Broccoli_In_My_Ice_Cream_Emily_MacKenzie

The Boy Who Loved Broccoli by Sarah A. Creighton (2011)

This book tells the story of Baxter, a boy who likes to eat broccoli so much that he gets superpowers. Reading Level: Elementary.

book_cover_The_Boy_Who_Loved_Broccoli_Sarah_A_Creighton

Cabbage:

Lessons and Activities

FoodMASTER: Vegetables

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.1	4-LS1-1 5-PS1-3 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3, RI.4.1,2,3 RI.5.2,3 WS.3.2,8 WS.4.2,4,8 WS.5.2,4, 8 SL.3.1,2,3,4,6 SL.4. 1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3,4

Center for Ecoliteracy: Investigating Cabbage Traditions

The versatile, tasty, and healthful cabbage has made its way into the hearts and onto the tables of people all over the world. As a cool-season crop, it thrives in cooler weather and is harvested in late fall through early spring, providing an important source of fresh greens during the winter months. In this lesson, students examine the cultural importance of cabbages, conduct a comparison tasting of different cabbages, and explore family food traditions involving cabbage.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		RI.4.1,7 SL.3.3 SL.4.3 SL.5.3 RI.3.7 W.3.7 W.4.7	3.26 3.27

Life Lab: Garden Habitats

This fourth-grade curriculum includes four lessons on food chains and garden habitats. Students will explore plant and animal habitats to learn more about the diversity of life in the garden. All activities would be appropriate for students in grades 3-5.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RI.3.1,7 RI.4.7 SL.3.1,3 SL.4.1,3 SL.5.1,3

Bonnie Plants: Food Miles

In this activity, students will read The Vegetables We Eat by Gail Gibbons. Students will then track the food miles (distance from farm to plate) of many of the fruits and vegetables they eat. The goal of this lesson is to inform students of the benefits of eating self-grown or locally produced fruits and vegetables. Food Miles Calculator — Food miles are a way of attempting to measure how far food has traveled before it reaches you, the consumer. It is a good way of looking at the environmental impact of foods and their ingredients.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.4 5.MD.C.3	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-2 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.2,3,7 RI.4.3,7 RI.5.2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2 SL.5.1,2	3.19	4th grade-2-E-1.1

Bonnie Plants: How Does Your Cabbage Grow?

Learn to care for a cabbage plant from seedling to harvest. For 12 weeks students will conduct a scientific investigation by recording, analyzing, and interpreting measurement data from a cabbage plant. If the plants are nurtured and cared for, kids can cultivate and grow giant cabbages, some bigger than a basketball, often tipping the scales at over 40 pounds!

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.3,4	3-LS1-1	RI.3.7 SL.3.1 WS.3.2.a WS.3.7 WS.3.10

Vermont’s Harvest of the Month: Cabbage

These harvest lessons are a fun way for students to explore, taste, and learn about cabbage. Students will learn about the origins, nutritional value, life cycle, adaptations, inherited traits, and predator/prey relations of cabbage. Also, students will learn how different cultures prepare cabbage with a taste test of cabbage dishes from different cultures. Students will measure the weight, mass, volume, density, and circumference of cabbages. They will learn about other members of the cabbage family with the Brassica Family Matching Game.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.4 5.MD.C.3	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-2 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.2,3,7 RI.4.3,7 RI.5.2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2 SL.5.1,2	3.19	4th grade 2-E-1.1

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Cabbage

Activities for cabbage include lessons centered around circle time, meal time, and activity time along with fast and fun activities. Each kit includes an activity plan, family recipe, teacher bites, and a parent newsletter and picture cards available in both English and Spanish. Cabbage Activity Plan Cabbage Family Recipe Cabbage Parent Newsletter - English Cabbage Parent Newsletter - Spanish Cabbage Picture Cards - English Cabbage Picture Cards - Spanish Cabbage Teacher Bites

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-2,3 4-LS1-1 4-LS1-2 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1		Grade 4- 7-E-1.1	VA-CE-E4

Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom: Bring on the Brassica Veggies

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3		Grade 4- 7-E-1.1	VA-CE-E4

Cabbage:

Videos and Other Resources

Growing Cabbages from Sowing to Harvests

A how-to video for growing cabbages from seed to harvest. (6:28)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Cabbage Brochure

Brochure containing cabbage facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Cabbage Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Cabbage:

Books

Long-Long’s New Year by Catherine Gower (2005)

In this beautifully illustrated multicultural children's book, a little Chinese boy named Long-Long accompanies his grandfather into the city to sell cabbages in order to buy food and decorations for the New Year. Selling cabbages is harder than Long-Long expects, and he encounters many adventures before he finds a way to help his grandfather and earn New Year's treats for his mother and little cousin.

Sauerkraut by Kelly Jones (2019)

HD Schenk is a maker--an inventor, someone who builds cool stuff. He's got a plan for the summer: he'll build his own computer and enter it in the county fair. Then everyone will know who he is and what he can do. To earn enough money for the parts he'll need, HD has promised to clear out his uncle's overflowing basement. No big deal, right? But there's more in that basement than HD bargained for. On his first trip down there, a voice only he can hear starts talking to him. About...sauerkraut? Who knew the ghost of his great-great-grandmother was haunting an old pickling crock? She's got a grand plan, too. She wants HD to help make her famous recipe for sauerkraut and enter it in the county fair so that she can be declared pickle queen

Green Power: Leaf & Flower Vegetables (Plants We Eat) by Meredith Sayles Hughes (2001)

Katie’s Cabbage by Katie Stagliano (2014)

Katie's Cabbage is the inspirational true story of how Katie Stagliano, a third grader from Summerville, South Carolina, grew a forty-pound cabbage in her backyard and donated it to help feed 275 people at a local soup kitchen.

Cabbages and Kings by Jamie Wyeth (1997)

A special friendship begins in Farmer Green's garden when a young asparagus stalk strikes up a conversation with his neighbor, a cabbage, and the two vegetables discover that they have much in common.

Katie’s Cabbage by Katie Stagliano and Michelle H. Martin (2014)

The true story of how Katie Stagliano, a third-grader from Summerville, South Carolina, grew a 40-pound cabbage in her backyard and donated it to help feed 275 people at a local soup kitchen. Ages: 7-11 years,

book_cover_Katies_Cabbage_Katie_Stagliano_Michelle_H_Martin

The Cabbage Soup Solution by Erika Oller (2004)

Someone is stealing cabbages from Elsie’s cabbage patch. With the aid of her two cats and some delicious homemade soup, Elsie befriends her cabbage thieves. Ages: 4-8 years.

book_cover_The_Cabbage_Soup_Solution_Erika_Oller

Catfish:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries: Explore a fish

In this lesson, students will identify the characteristics of a fish—both internally and externally. Students will describe the shape and function of the different fish organs.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LLS1-1 4-LS1-2 4-ESS2-3 6-MS-LS2-1 6-MS-LS2-2 7-MS-LS1-3 8-MS-LS4-2

Louisiana Harvest of the Month: Dress a fish

In this lesson, students identify the anatomy of fish using everyday objects. Students will discuss how fish have adapted according to their environment and how these adaptations have helped them. Lastly, the lesson has students compare the physical properties between fish and other animals.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1 4-LS1-2

NC Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom: Overfishing and Aquaculture

In this lesson, students will discuss the diverse types of fish and seafood that can be found in an ecosystem. Students will compare wild-caught and farm-raised aquaculture systems and determine how overfishing can damage the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS2-1 3-LS4-3 3-LS4-4 4-LS1-1 5-LS2-1 5-ESS3-1 6-MS-LS2-2 6-MS-ESS3-4

Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom: Fish in a Bottle

In this lesson, students will create a fish ecosystem. Students will observe their ecosystems and make observations. At the end of the observation period, the students will make conclusions about their ecosystems.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	K-ESS2-2 K-ESS3-1 K-LS1-1 K-ESS3-3 1-LS1-1 2-LS4-1 3-LS4-3

Catfish:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Catfish

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month thrives in the muddy waters of the southern region of the United States, and it holds a humble yet essential piece of our culinary history here in the South. It's catfish! In the past, eating catfish was a social experience, where they were caught wild, prepared, and eaten together as a group. Now, most of the catfish we eat are farmed from ponds like the one we'll see today. Join me and let's learn a little more about how the catfish hooked America.

Catfish:

Books

Making a Big Splash with Louisiana Fishes by Prosanta Chakrabarty, Sophie Warny, and Valerie Derouen (2014)

The Making a Big Splash with Louisiana Fishes features 10 kid’s activities, a short fiction story, and a guide to Louisiana’s common fishes. Download the free pdf or purchase a hardcopy color version at lsufoundation.org/fishbook

Facts About the Blue Catfish by Lisa Strattin (2016)

This is a nonfiction book that provides facts along with photographs to instruct children about the Blue Catfish.

Catfish Clues: What is a Fish? By Linda Ayers, Nicola O’Byrne, Drew Temperante (2019)

This is a story about a catfish who wants to know why he is different from the rest of his underwater friends. Throughout the book he discovers the characteristics of catfish, sharks, and other fish that make each unique.

Clarissa Catfish at the Peoria Playhouse Children’s Museum by Elaine A. Powers (2020)

Clarissa Catfish liked her new home at the Peoria Playhouse Children’s Museum, but she couldn’t see the exhibits or the children. How can a catfish travel around when she needs to stay in the water? Come inside to find out and join Clarissa as she explores the marvelous museum.

Citrus:

Lessons and Activities

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

This activity teaches students to identify different types of fruits and categorize them into two main groups based on whether they are dry or fleshy. Students will follow a worksheet and complete a lab assignment in which they dissect various fruits. A Seedy Fruit Challenge PDF

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Weather STEM: Weather and Honey Bees

This is a 21-slide e-lesson on how weather affects honey bees. In this electronic resource students will learn the vital role honey bees play in pollination: through pollination, honey bees are responsible for nearly one-third of our food supply. Changes in temperature, rainfall, solar radiation, and the wind can have adverse impacts on honey bees and hive activity. We've provided a student page if students need one to follow along with the lesson. Student Page

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS4-3 3-LS4-4 4-LS1-1 4-LS1-2 4-ESS2-3 5-LS2-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3

Weather STEM: Weather and Citrus

This is a 20-slide e-lesson on how weather affects the citrus industry. In this lesson students will learn about citrus, the history of citrus in Florida (the largest producer of citrus), and how weather has played an important role in the Florida citrus industry. We've provided a student page if students need one to follow along with the lesson. Student Page

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS4-3 3-LS4-4 4-LS1-1 4-LS1-2 4-ESS2-3 5-LS2-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: A “Sour” Subject

In this lesson, students will learn about the growth and production of citrus fruits. They will participate in two activities in which they use the skills of observation and mathematical computation to compare and contrast grapefruits and lemons. A Sour Subject PDF

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A.2	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1 5-PS1-3	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2 WS.3.2,4 WS.4.2,4 WS.5.2,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: FoodMASTER Fruits

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Kids Gardening: Eat a Rainbow

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 W.3.1, 4, 7,10 W.4.1, 4,7,10 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3, 4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

Citrus:

Videos and Other Resources

6 Citrus Varieties Multi Grafted onto One Fruit Cocktail Tree! (4:29)

A multi-grafted fruit cocktail citrus tree featuring tangerine, Meyer lemon, calamansi, Tahitian lime, kumquat, and kaffir lime.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Citrus

This month's Louisiana Harvest of The Month is a juicy sweet fruit high in vitamin C and enjoyed any time of the day. It's citrus! Let's unpeel this refreshing fruit, a crop that has been grown in Louisiana for over 300 years.

True Food TV: Why Ripe Limes Are NOT Green

You've likely never eaten a ripe lime. Here's why in 60 seconds. (1:09)

True Food TV: Almalfi Coast Lemon | How Does It Grow? Special: The Flying Farmer

This human-interest video shows how some Italian lemon farmers grow their huge lemons in terraced gardens on mountainsides off the Almalfi Coast of Italy. From the town below, an 83-year-old, fourth-generation lemon farmer appears to be flying in the clouds as he climbs his arbors to harvest lemons. (11:22)

How Orange Juice Is Made

From orange trees to orange juice. (6:39)

True Food TV: Oranges | How Does It Grow?

Very informative video about varieties of oranges and how they are grown commercially. (7:38)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Tangerine Brochure

Brochure containing tangerine facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Tangerine Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Satsuma Brochure

Brochure containing satsuma facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Satsuma Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Orange Brochure

Brochure containing orange facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Orange Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Lime Brochure

Brochure containing lime facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Lime Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Kumquat Brochure

Brochure containing kumquat facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Kumquat Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Grapefruit Brochure

Brochure containing grapefruit facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Grapefruit Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Center for Ecoliteracy: Nourishing Students: Posters

Display these posters in kitchens, cafeterias, classrooms, and during after-school programs as a fun and engaging way to promote fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy eating. This set of free, downloadable full-color posters features wildlife animals with the following fruit or vegetable: Radish, Strawberry, Grape, Tomato, Orange.

California Harvest of the Month: Grapefruit Botanical Image

This site includes facts about grapefruit and a colorful diagram of the anatomy of a grapefruit, a lemon, and a lime.

Citrus:

Books

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

When Grandma Gives You a Lemon Tree by Jamie Deenihan (2019)

This clever story, complete with a recipe for lemonade, celebrates the pleasures of patience, hard work, nature, and community. Grade Level: Elementary.

book_cover_When_Grandma_Gives_You_A_Lemon_Tree_Jamie_Deenihan

A Star in My Orange: Looking for Nature’s Shapes by Dana Rau (2006)

This book explores shapes in the world around you. Ages: 5-8 years.

An Orange in January by Dianna Aston (2007)

This book follows an orange from blossom to ripe fruit, and from tree to truck to market. Ages: 4-8 years.

book_cover_An_Orange_In_January_Dianna_Aston

Nothing Rhymes with Orange by Adam Rex (2017)

We all know nothing rhymes with orange, but how does that make Orange feel? Well, left out, obviously! When a fruit parade gets together to sing a song about how wonderful they are — and the song happens to rhyme — Orange can't help but feel like it's impossible to ever fit in. But when one particularly intuitive Apple notices how Orange is feeling, the entire English language begins to become a bit more inclusive. Beloved author-illustrator Adam Rex has created a hilarious yet poignant parable about feeling left out, celebrating difference, and the irrefutable fact that nothing rhymes with orange. Grade Level: K-3.

book_cover_Nothing_Rhymes_With_Orange_Adam_Rex

Crawfish:

Crawfish:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Crawfish Co. Our Process (2:23)

Take a look at the process Louisiana Crawfish Co undertakes to get crawfish from the pond to your table every season!

Day in the Life of a Louisiana Crawfish Farmer

Join Kara and Nate as they learn all about the crawfishing industry-- from pulling mudbugs out of the pond to serving them up at a boil!

Moby Pincher’s Place

A former educator, Dee Scallan has always been passionate about knowledge and strives to inspire a love of learning in children across the state. Through her tales of Moby Pincher, illustrated by one of her students when he was 8 years old, Dee teaches children about the geography and science of Louisiana. She encourages children to create and illustrate their own stories.

Crawfish:

Books

Crabs, Crayfishes, and Their Relatives by Beth Blaxland (2002)

Defines crustaceans, such as slaters and freshwater crayfishes, and describes their physical characteristics, life cycles, habitats, senses, food and means of self-defense.

Why the Crawfish Lives in the Mud by Johnette Downing (2009)

A long time ago, when Crab and Crawfish were still best friends, Crawfish was feeling particularly lazy--and particularly hungry-as he loafed around the muggy bayou. When Crab arrived with a fish, Crawfish took one listen to his empty belly and decided to trick his good-natured friend. After Crab realizes Crawfish has made a fool of him again, he isn't happy, and before he knows it, Crawfish gets exactly what he deserves. A charming tale cautioning children about the consequences of cheating your friends, this colorful picture book from the critically acclaimed Johnette Downing will delight readers of all ages with its timeless and gentle lesson about integrity.

The Life Cycle of a Crayfish by Bobbie Kalman (2006)

Discusses the physical characteristics, behavior, and development of crayfish, and explains how they are threatened by habitat loss and the use of pesticides.

Crayfish by Phyllis W. Grimm (2000)

Describes the physical characteristics, behaviors such as the search for food and eating habits, method of reproduction, habitat, and survival challenges of this group of crustaceans.

Cucumber:

Lessons and Activities

Seeds to Success: Growing Seeds Experiment

Growing plants from seeds is a seamless way to allow students to explore their curiosity about the how the world works while connecting with nature and implementing their scientific inquiry skills. This lesson is intended to be student-driven. Depending on resources, this can be a whole-class experiment or different groups can investigate the various predicted needs of plants. Teacher page and student pages are embedded in the PowerPoint and are set to print on regular-size paper.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
2.MD.A.1 2.MD.D.9 2.MD.D.10 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 3.MD.B.4	2-PS1-2 2-LS2-1 3-LS3-2 3-LS4-3 5-LS1-1	W.2.8 SL.2.1 SL.2.4 SL.2.6 W.3.8 SL.3.1 SL.3.4 SL.3.6 W.4.8 SL.4.1 SL.4.4 SL.4.6 W.5.8 SL.5.1 SL.5.4 SL.5.6

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Edible Schoolyard: Seed Sleuth

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: Flower Power

This is an excellent flower dissection lesson or pollinator unit that includes pollinator (bee) lessons and videos. Students will observe physical characteristics of flowers and explore principles of pollination.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS4-4 4-LS1-1,2 5-LS1-1	RI.3.7 RI.4.7 RI.5.7 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3			VA-CE-E4

Growing Minds Farm to School Program: In a Pickle

Students conduct an experiment to determine what fraction of vinegar is needed to safely preserve pickles. Students will use math skills to determine volumes needed based on a ratio. The book "The Pickle Patch Bathtub" by Frances Kennedy is a good complement for this lesson. In A Pickle Student Worksheet - students will learn how we kept food from rotting before we had refrigerators.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.OA.A.3 3.NF.A.1,2,3 3.MD.A.2 4.NF.A.1,2 4.NF.B.3 4.MD.A.1 5.NF.A.1	5-PS1-2,3,4	RI.3.7 RI.4.7 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3 W.3.1 W.4.1 W.5.1

Cucumber:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Cucumbers

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month is not only refreshing to eat, but people have been relying on them for centuries for things like soothing sunburns, hydrating skin, and even curing bad breath. It's cucumbers! These crispy fruits add crunch to salads and sandwiches, and they're often enjoyed preserved as pickles. Let's head to the farm to learn a little bit more about what makes a cucumber such a big deal!

Pickle Time-Lapse

Time-lapse video of a cucumber growing from flower to picking size. (2:39)

True Food TV: Cucumber | How Does It Grow?

This video discusses the origin of cucumbers, explains why they sometimes have a bitter taste, and takes you to a commercial farm to show how they grow cucumbers. (7:52)

Shanleya’s Quest: A Botany Adventure for Kids Ages 9 to 99

"Shanleya's Quest" is a truly unique educational book that presents botanical concepts and plant identification skills in an easy and fun metaphorical format for children as well as for adults who are young at heart. (8:48)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Cucumber Brochure

Brochure containing cucumber facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Cucumber Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Cucumber:

Books

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

Botany in a Day by Thomas J. Elpel (2003)

Each family of related plants has unique patterns for identification. Learn to recognize these patterns, and discover them again and again in the plants you encounter. It is possible to instantly recognize a plant never before seen, and in many cases, to know its edible or medicinal properties on the spot — even before you have identified it down to the species!

book cover for "Botany In A Day" by Thomas J Elpel

Shanleya’s Quest: A Botany Adventure for Kids Ages 9 to 99 by Thomas J. Elpel (2003)

In a mythical world where time is a liquid that falls as rain upon the land, young Shanleya paddles her canoe out to the tree islands to learn the plant traditions of her people. Each island is home to a separate family of plants and an unforgettable Guardian with lessons to teach about the identification and uses of those plants.

book_cover_Shanleyas_Quest_Thomas_J_Elpel

Up, Down, and Around by Katherine Ayres (2008)

This rhyming story is perfect for introducing young children to fruits and vegetables that grow up (like corn and peppers), down (like potatoes and carrots), and around (like cucumber and pumpkin vines).

book_cover_Up_Down_And_Around_Katherien_Ayers

The Pickle Patch Bathtub by Frances Kennedy (2004)

One day, Donna tries to bathe in the farmhouse washtub and realizes that her legs are too long. She decides that she will grow pickling cucumbers to sell until she saves up enough money for a new bathtub. How many cucumbers will she have to grow and how long will it take for her to save enough money? Grade Level: Preschool – 2. Lexile Measure: AD830L.

book_cover_The_Pickle_Patch_Bathtub_Frances_Kennedy

The Spider and the Cucumber by Catina Harris (2018)

The spider thinks that the cucumber must feel awful that it isn’t the same color on the inside as on its outside. This book teaches that something different can also be nice. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_The_Spider_And_The_Cucumber_Catina_Harris

Cool as a Cucumber: And Other Expressions about Food (It’s Just an Expression) by Bridget Heos (2012)

This book explores a variety of food-related sayings and helps readers figure out what people really mean when they use them. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_Cool_As_A_Cucumber_Bridget_Heos

Eggplant:

Lessons and Activities

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Louisiana Harvest of the Month: Why Did the Eggplant Turn Brown?

This lesson focuses on the browning of an eggplant (oxidation) when it is cut or bruised. In a simple controlled experiment, students will test different processes that they believe will inhibit the browning of eggplant slices. The desirability and acceptability of browning on eggplants should also be discussed. Students will brainstorm, discuss, plan, and test different processes that could inhibit eggplant browning. Before this activity, students should understand that a chemical reaction occurs when two or more substances combine to form a new substance.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	5-PS1-4	RI.3.7 RI.4.7 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3 W.5.7 W.5.8 W.5.9		Grade 3 7-E-3.3

Science with Kids: Antioxidant Experiment

Antioxidants are chemical compounds that slow down or stop oxidation. In this controlled experiment students will treat pieces of apples and bananas with three common household antioxidants (lemon juice, corn syrup, and sugar) to prevent browning or oxidation. Then, they will compare the treated pieces to the control pieces (pieces not treated).

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	5-PS1-4	RI.3.7 RI.4.7 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		Grade 3 7-E-3.3

Edible Schoolyard: Seed Sleuth

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Eggplant:

Videos and Other Resources

How to Grow Eggplants – Complete Growing Guide (11:27)

In this growing guide we will be talking all about eggplants! When to tell if they are ripe, how to fertilize, when to fertilize, how much to water them, temperature requirements, and spacing.

Different Types of Eggplants

From Japanese to Italian to Thai, read about all the different types of eggplants people are growing around the world.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Eggplants

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month just might be the most mysterious of all the vegetables. In many parts of the world it's called an Aubergine but it's even known as the king of vegetables. It's eggplant! Early varieties were white oval fruits that looked a lot like chicken eggs, which is how the eggplant originally got its name. What else is this mystery vegetable hiding? Let's head to the farm to find out what other secrets we can reveal about this ancient plant.

Harvesting and Saving Eggplant Seeds

Saving eggplant seeds is very easy, and doesn't require fermenting. A couple of eggplants will produce many more seeds than you need. (7:31)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Eggplant Brochure

Brochure containing eggplant facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Eggplant Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

Growing Eggplant from Seed

This video shows an eggplant forming on the plant from flower to fruit. (3:02)

Oxidation in Apples

This tutorial explains oxidation and how to stop oxidation on an apple slice down to the molecular level. This video can be shown before the eggplant lesson to explain oxidation and give students ideas for stopping the oxidation of their eggplant slice. (4:12)

Eggplant:

Books

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

The World of Vegetables by Alexandra Lopatina (2011)

Each story, like "How Senior Aubergine Made Teeth Better," is delivered in an entertaining, fairy-tale representational form and tells about a particular vegetable, its values, and its importance in daily diet, and concludes with a healthy recipe for students to make. Ages: 4-10 years.

book_cover_The_World_of_Vegetables_Alexandra_Lopatina

Violet and the Eggplant Painting Problem by Cynthia Wylie (2018)

Violet, a young painter, chooses to grow eggplants because she loves the color purple, and decides to make paintings of them to track their progress. Alas, she discovers there is no more purple paint. She solves her problem in an interesting way! Ages: 4-8 years.

book_cover_Violet_and_the_Purple_Painting_Problem_Cynthia_Wiley

Leafy Greens:

Lessons and Activities

FoodMASTER: Growing It

Students will learn about growing a garden, including the importance of the soil pH. They will test soil pH as well as grown spinach, observing changes over 5 weeks.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.OA.B5 3.OA.C7 3.NF.A1 3.NF.A2 4.NF.B3	3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1 5-PS1-3 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3, RI.4.1,2,3 RI.5.2,3 WS.3.2,8 WS.4.2,4,8 WS.5.2,4, 8 SL.3.1,2,3,4,6 SL.4. 1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd 1-E-2.2,4 4th 1-E-2.1,2,4 1-E-4.2 7-E-1.2

Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program: Spinach Worksheets

Taste-test worksheets for spinach along with coloring sheets and other lessons organized by grade level.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4 L.3.5b L.4.5b W.3.2a-d W.4.2a-e W.5.2a-e		Grade 4 1-E-2	VA-CE-E5 VA-CE-M1

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Kale

Includes two lessons: The Autobiography of Kale (English) and Parts of a Leaf (Science). Have students imagine they are a kale plant and describe their life from seed to plate. This is a great opportunity to discuss the life cycle of a plant, as it lives through the seasons. Then have students draw and label a kale leaf through observation. On the board, you can draw the parts along with the students and discuss the role of each part as you go.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4 RL.3.1 RL.4.1 RL.5.1 W.3.3a-d W.4.3a-e W.5.3a-e

New Hampshire Harvest of the Month: Kale

A variety of lessons to explore, taste, and learn about kale. Activities include learning about plant parts, making a massaged kale salad, and mapping the history of kale.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A2 3.MD.B3	4-LS1-1 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1	SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4 RL.3.1 RL.4.1 RL.5.1	3.19	Grade 4 1-E-2	VA-CE-E5

Cornell Garden-Based Learning: Campaign for Salad

Adapt this lesson and have students elect “candidates” to “represent” salad in their own small garden plot. Students select specific criteria such as days to maturity, taste, and ease of growing and research greens and other salad fixings using seed catalogs. Next they create campaign posters, slogans, and speeches and organize a vote.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.3.1,4,5 SL.4.1,4,5 SL.5.1,4,5 W.3.2,6 W.4.2,6 W.5.2,6			VA-CE-E5

California Ag in the Classroom: Spinach

A fact and activity sheet on spinach. Spinach is packed with nutrients, easy to prepare and tasty too! In fact, spinach can be prepared many different ways. This activity will encourage students to add spinach to their diets. Students will compare the visual appearance, taste, texture, and smell of fresh and steamed spinach.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	5-PS1-2	SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4	3.19	Grade 4 1-E-2

Science Center: Photosynthesis and Natural Chemical Reactions

In this activity, students will observe the photosynthesis process taking place in spinach leaves. Students will provide the spinach with carbon dioxide and light, and observe how the leaves release tiny oxygen bubbles (a by-product of photosynthesis).

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: Luscious Leaves

The purpose of this lesson is to review the functions of plant leaves and to develop an understanding of leaves as edible parts of some plants. Many edible leaves are part of a healthy diet and are a good source of vitamin A. Luscious Leaves Lesson PDF

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1	4-LS1-1 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2.3,2.4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1

Edible Schoolyard: Seed Sleuth

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Leafy Greens:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Greens

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is a staple in southern cooking. It's greens! Check out our video to learn a little more about what makes greens so special!

Spinach Time-Lapse – 40 days, Soil Cross Section

A time-lapse video that shows how both leaves and roots grow on spinach plants. (2:34)

Suburban Homestead: Growing Kale and Collard Greens

A suburban homesteader gives tips on growing collards and kale. (5:49)

Growing Swiss Chard from Seeds, Days 0-31

A home gardener describes the process of growing Swiss chard from seeds in a container. (13:13)

Leafy Greens:

Books

Green Power: Leaf & Flower Vegetables (Plants We Eat) by Meredith Sayles Hughes (2001)

Captain Kale and the Superfoods by Amy Roth (2013)

This story is about a boy who is very unhealthy and one night he witnesses Captain Kale and the Superfoods battling with Sneaky Snack Cake and all the junk food in his pantry. They are in a battle over his health! He learns how important it is to eat healthy nutritious fruits and vegetables and how much it improves his health

A Wonderland Garden: The Collard Green Boy! by Cynthia Robinson-Bell (2014)

This is a short fairytale story about an adolescent vegetable boy name Collard Green Boy. Collard Boy learns many valuable lessons. 1.That its okay to be different. Meanwhile this book explores the many adventures of growing up. 2. Facing rejection. 3. Leaving his comfort zone in "A Wonderland Garden." This book also introduces youths that change and meeting new people can be very rewarding. Many young children and adults don't like eating vegetables; this book will engage the ages of 5 to 105 with its funny vegetable characters in "A Wonderland Garden." This youthful boy finds out that its okay to be yourself, and obeying his parents. Sometimes change can be a positive and rewarding experience in growing up even as a vegetable youth.

Mimi’s Strategy: What to do when the vegetables are green by Linda Goudsmit (2020)

Hildy does NOT like green vegetables, and every night at dinnertime she is expected to eat the green vegetables on her plate. What is Hildy supposed to do?

The Marvelous Mustard Seed by Amy-Jill Levine (2018)

Discover the surprising potential of one small seed in The Marvelous Mustard Seed. Based on Jesus’ parable of the Mustard Seed, this inspiring children’s book shows young readers that one tiny seed—just like one small child—carries a world of potential. The Marvelous Mustard Seed features ethnically diverse characters, and it is ideal for children ages 4-8. A special note for parents and teachers is included.

Alex McGreen and the Tale of the Mysterious Kale (2018)

Alex McGreen and the Tale of the Mysterious Kale" is an explosive tale of how a ten-year-old girl saves her fifth grade science class with kale. It mixes fiction with real world threats and shows that anyone at any age can cause a healthy food movement. This easy reader is all about food, innovation and community.

Sylvia’s Spinach by Katherine Pryor and Anna Raff (2014)

A picky eater discovers the joy of growing food and the pleasure of tasting something new. Sylvia Spivens always says no to spinach. But one day Sylvia's teacher gives her a packet of spinach seeds to plant for the school garden. Overcoming her initial reluctance and giving the seeds a little love and patience, Sylvia discovers the joy of growing food and the pleasure of tasting something new.

book_cover_Sylvias_spinach_Katherine_Pryor_Anna_Raff

Sneaky Spinach by Alexis Schulze and Sophie Hanton (2016)

This is a story about a boy named Nick who refuses to eat his vegetables. He doesn't know how important fruits and vegetables are for his brain and body, so a group of Super Spinach leaves comes up with a clever little scheme.

book_cover_Sneaky_spinach_Alexis_Schulze_Sophia_Hanton

Pete Moss and the Super Strong Spinach: Bloomers Island Garden of Stories #1 by Cynthia Wylie and Courtney Carbone (2018)

Follow Pete Moss in this magical, beautifully illustrated story as he attends boarding school on Bloomers Island to learn about gardening and growing his own vegetables.

book_cover_Pete_Moss_and_the_Super_Strong_Spinach_Cynthia_Wylie

The Tale of Kale by Lisa Borden (2015)

"The Tale of Kale" is a based on a real story and a real kid, and is meant to be a colorful and happy way to encourage good eating habits and develop excitement for trying new things.

book_cover_The_Tale_of_Kale_Lisa_Borden_Wengsi_Chiu

Lettuce:

Lessons and Activities

Seeds to Success: Growing Seeds Experiment

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
2.MD.A.1 2.MD.D.9 2.MD.D.10 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 3.MD.B.4	2-PS1-2 2-LS2-1 3-LS3-2 3-LS4-3 5-LS1-1	W.2.8 SL.2.1 SL.2.4 SL.2.6 W.3.8 SL.3.1 SL.3.4 SL.3.6 W.4.8 SL.4.1 SL.4.4 SL.4.6 W.5.8 SL.5.1 SL.5.4 SL.5.6

FoodMASTER: Vegetables

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.1	4-LS1-1 5-PS1-3 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3, RI.4.1,2,3 RI.5.2,3 WS.3.2,8 WS.4.2,4,8 WS.5.2,4, 8 SL.3.1,2,3,4,6 SL.4. 1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3,4

Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program: Salad Greens Worksheets

Taste-test worksheets for salad greens along with coloring sheets and other lessons organized by grade level.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4 L.3.5b W.3.2 W.4.2 W.5.2		3rd 1-E-1.1 1-E-1.2 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 6-E-1.1, 2, 3 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 4th 1-E-2.1,2 3-E-1.1 3-E-2.2 5-E-1.2 7-E-2.2 7-E-3.1 5th 1-E-3.3 2-E-2.1 2-E-4.2 4-E-1.1 6-E-1.1	VA-CE-E5

Kids Gardening: Let There Be Light

Students will learn about how light is important to plants, and how both quality and quantity of light affect plant growth. Students will also design and conduct experiments using grow lights to demonstrate the impact of variations in light on plant growth. From this they will draw conclusions about the best and most efficient source of light for plants.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1 4.MD.B.4 5.MD.B.2	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-PS3-2.4 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-PS3-1	SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4		4th Grade 1-E-2.1 1-E-2. 2 1-E-2.4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 5th grade 1-E-4.1 7-E-1.2

Kids Gardening: Edible Landscaping

Interested in starting a food garden with your students, but can’t find space for a traditional vegetable garden or fruit orchard? Try edible landscaping! Students will investigate the ornamental properties of lettuce to expand their perceptions of plant material that can be used in landscapes.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B4 4.MD.A1,B4 5.MD.A1,A2	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-2,3,4 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	W.3.1,2,4,6,7 W.4.1,2,4,5,6,7,8,9 W.5.1,2,4,5,6,7,8,9 SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4		1-E-1.1,1.2,1.4,2.3 7-E-1.1,1.3	VA-AP-E1,E2,E3,E4,E5,E6 VA-AP-M1,M2,M3,M4,M5,M6 VA-CE-E3,E5,E6 VA-CE-M3,M5,M6

California Ag in the Classroom: Lettuce

A fact and activity sheet on lettuce. Lettuce and other leafy greens can be grown from a cutting. Students will design a science experiment to observe the phenomenon, then research and find out why it works and what plants need to grow.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A1 3.MD.B4	4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4		1-E-2.2 1-E-2.3 1-E-2.4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1	VA-CE-E5

Florida Harvest of the Month: Lettuce Classroom Guide

A variety of lettuce lessons and activities focused on math, science, language arts, and social studies. Awesome Adjectives: Students will identify adjectives and the nouns they describe (Language Arts) Line Plots: Students will create a line plot and fill in the part-to-whole ratios (Math) Note: Parts of this lesson may be more appropriate for Grade 6. What are We Eating: Students will think of fruits and vegetables they like to eat and categorize them by what part of the plant is eaten (Science) Needs and Risks: Students will brainstorm potential needs and risks of different food system jobs (Social Studies)

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
5.G.A1,A2 6.RP.A1,A2 6.SP.B4,B5	4-LS1-1	L.3.1a L.4.1d SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4	3.15 3.16

Kids Gardening: Lettuce Be Healthy

Growing the makings of your own salad indoors is a fun and easy way to bring greenery into your classroom and your diet. First, students research different varieties of lettuce from seed catalogs (online or request catalogs). Students will learn that different varieties of lettuce have different vitamins and minerals and look different (e.g., color, head, or leaf). Students will track the growth of their plants using the Lettuce Growth Chart. If you want to add an experimental element, students can grow the plants in different locations and compare the height, rate of growth, and color of their plants. Lettuce Growth Chart pdf KWL Chart pdf

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
4.MD.A.1,2 4.MD.B.4 5.MD.B.2	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Mixed Greens

A variety of lessons to explore, taste, and learn about mixed greens. Activities include growing greens in a plastic bottle greenhouse, conducting taste tests, and mapping the history of salad.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2.3,2.4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 4th Grade 2-E-1.1,2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 4-E-1.1 8-E-2.1

Washington State University Extension: Lett’uce Eat

Explore and taste leafy green snacks, plant lettuce seeds, find out which are the healthiest, and take home your own lettuce plant. Learn about various lettuces and greens, their nutritional values, and how to make healthy snacks using greens.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.3	5-LS1-1			3rd Grade 1-E-2.1 1-E-2.3 7-E-1.1 7-E-3.3 4th Grade 1-E-2.2 7-E-1.2 5th grade 7-E-1.2

National Ag in the Classroom: Luscious Leaves

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1	4-LS1-1 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2.3,2.4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1

Lettuce:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Lettuce

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is made up of 95% water and is used as toppings on things as tacos and sandwiches but it also tasty on its own. It’s lettuce! Let us learn a little bit more about the second most popular vegetable in the United States.

True Food TV: 6 Amazing Heirloom Lettuces to Plant Now for Fall/Home Gardening: Ep. 8

Along with introducing her top picks for easy-to-grow, delicious lettuce, kale and mustard greens, Nicole Jolly of True Food TV explains the history of lettuce. (10:03)

How to Make a Mini Kratky Hydroponic System for Lettuce

A video on growing lettuce from seed to harvest by a home gardener. (10:42)

How to Grow Lettuce from Seed to Harvest

A video on growing lettuce from seed to harvest by a home gardener. (9:18)

Time-Lapse Video of Hydroponic Lettuce – 25 days

Growing lettuce hydroponically in 25 days. (2:25)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Lettuce Brochure

Brochure containing lettuce facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the "Lettuce Nutrition" paragraph to download the flyer.

NASA Space Station Live: Lettuce Look at Veggie

Astronauts on the International Space Station are ready to sample their harvest of a crop of "Outredgeous" red romaine lettuce from the Veggie plant growth system that tests hardware for growing vegetables and other plants in space. (4:06)

Kids Gardening: Best Crops for Hydroponics – Growing Guide

This guide discusses the best starter crops for beginning hydroponic gardening.

Hydroponic Gardening: Grow Organic Plants Fast

Virtual field trip to an organic hydroponic lettuce farm. Students will see how lettuce is grown hydroponically year-round. (3:06)

Kids Gardening: Gardening Basics – Hydroponics

This is a simple guide to the two main types of hydroponic systems: passive and active.

Lettuce:

Books

Green Power: Leaf & Flower Vegetables (Plants We Eat) by Meredith Sayles Hughes (2001)

Lettuce Grows on the Ground by Mari Schuh and Gail Saunders-Smith (2007)

Simple text and photographs describe how lettuce grows on the ground.

book_cover_Lettuce_Grows_on_the_Ground_Mari_Schuc_Gail_Saunders-Smith

Lettuce! by Diana Kizlauskas (2015)

This thoughtful, fun, and compelling tale focuses on Rabbit, who finds that lettuce he has planted has grown as big as a building... With its complex themes presented in a simple yet delightful story, this will make an excellent addition to any picture-book collection.

Mushrooms:

Lessons and Activities

Mushrooms in Schools: Cooking with Mushrooms.

Students will use their understanding of equivalent fractions to solve problems, then will help the kitchen staff prepare a mushroom avocado quesadilla recipe.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.A1 3.NF.A2 3.NF.A3 4.NF.A1 4.NF.A2 5.MD.A1

Mushrooms in Schools: Classifying Mushrooms

Following the completion of the virtual farm tour lesson, students will learn about the different types of mushrooms and will use the five senses to describe their characteristics and attributes. Students will also explore the health benefits of mushrooms and how they promote environmental sustainability.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		RI.3.2 SL.3.1,4 RI.4.2 SL.4.1,4 RI.5.2 SL.5.1,4

Mushrooms in Schools: Virtual Farm Tour

Students will make inferences and predict that we will be learning about mushrooms. They will then explore the steps of the mushroom growing process.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1	W.3.4 SL.3.1,4 W.4.4 SL.4.1,4 W.5.4 SL.5.1,4

Florida Harvest of the Month: Mushroom Classroom Guide

Multiple pdf classroom guides for grades K-8 found at this website

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
K.MD.A 1.MD.A.1 2.MD.D.10 3.MD.3.6-7 4.MD.A.1,3	K-LS-1-1 2-LS2-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RI.3.4 RI.3.7 SL.3.4 RI.4. 4 RI.4. 7 SL.4. 4

California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom: Mushrooms

A fact and activity sheet on mushrooms.This resource contains a mushroom dissection activity!

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
5.MD.A1	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1 6-MS-LS1-1 7-MS-LS1-3 8-MS-LS1-4	RI.3.7 W.3.2,3,4,7,8, SL.3.1,4 RI.4.7 W.4. 2,3, 4,7,8 SL.4.1,4 RI.5.7 W.5.2,3,4,7,8 SL.5.1,4,5		3rd Grade 1-E-2.3 1-E-2.4 4-E-1.2 4th Grade 1-E-2.3 1-E-2.4 3-E-2.2 5th Grade 4-E-1.1 8-E-2.1

Mushrooms:

Videos and Other Resources

SciShowKids- Fungi: Why Mushrooms Are Awesome (3:48)

What's something that's neither vegetable or meat, digests food on the outside of its body, glows and the dark, and can go on top of your pizza? The amazing mushroom!

How Does it Grow? Mushrooms (3:49)

Get to know mushrooms -- the mysterious food that suffers from a case of mistaken identity.

American Mushroom Institute: Fun with Fungi Coloring Sheets

This coloring book features images of cultivated mushrooms grown in the United States, produced by the American Mushroom Institute for students everywhere.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Mushrooms

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is not a plant or an animal. It’s often mistakenly called a vegetable, but it is actually the fruit of a fungus. It’s mushrooms! These tasty toadstools prefer to grow in the dark. In fact, they require no sunlight at all, but today we're going to shed some light on what it takes to get these meaty, nutritious mushrooms from the farm to your fork.

Do Mushrooms Have Roots? A Lesson on How Mushrooms Grow

The answer is ‘No’, but they do have a wonderful root-like structure called mycelium. (4:13)

Mushrooms:

Books

Good Mushrooms and Bad Toadstools by Allan Fowler (2001)

Find out how mushrooms grow, which ones we eat, and why mushrooms are good and toadstools are bad.

From Spore to Mushroom by Lisa Owings (2017)

Follow each step in the mushroom’s life cycle - from spores drifting in the wind to fully grown mushrooms.

The Mushroom Fan Club by Elise Gravel (2018)

This book takes the reader on a tour of the forest floor mushroom hunting. Appeared on Best of 2018 lists from Quill & Quire and the Globe and Mail

Melon & Watermelon:

Lessons and Activities

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: FoodMASTER Fruits

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: Plant and Animal Life Cycles

A series of lessons featuring life cycles of plants (apple, cotton, pea, pumpkin, tomato, and watermelon) and animals (chicken).

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3

Melon & Watermelon:

Videos and Other Resources

Maryland Farm & Harvest: How Watermelons are Harvested (5:31)

Farmer Carville Mace is working hard at Foxleigh Farm to bring in the last of the watermelon harvest. With a quick recap of how they planted their fields with this iconic summer fruit, we see just how much the melons have grown.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Watermelon

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month was so loved by American writer, Mark Twain, that he declared, “when you taste it you know what the angels eat,” and it is a heavenly treat on a hot summer day. It’s watermelon! Louisiana is known to grow some of the sweetest varieties of watermelon, so today we are in Washington Parish at Perry Talley’s farm to learn a little bit more about this angelic fruit.

How to Pick a Ripe Watermelon

An informative video on how to know when a watermelon is ripe enough to pick. Some of these tips can also be used to pick a ripe watermelon from the store. (2:07)

Watermelon from Seed: Time-Lapse

A time-lapse video of watermelon growing from germination (Day 8) to first true leaves (Day 39). (1:05)

True Food TV: SEEDLESS Watermelon – You’ll Never Guess How It’s Grown

If seedless watermelons have no seeds, how exactly are they grown? And what about other seedless fruit? Bananas and seedless grapes — how do they grow? Prepare to have your mind blown. (3:39)

Melon & Watermelon:

Books

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

Genetically Modified Foods by Nigel Hawkes (2000)

Discusses the pros and cons of mass producing modified foods while offering an examination of how these products are made, the specific genes that are altered, and the types of modified food that are in the market today.

A Seed Grows (My First Look at a Plant’s Life Cycle) by Pamela Hickman (1997)

The "My First Look At" series provides young children with an introduction to the world around them. In "A Seed Grows," follow the growth of a plant, from a peek inside a sprouting seed to the harvest of the fruit. The book suggests ways parents and children can explore nature — without disturbing it. Reading level: Upper Elementary.

Spit N’ Good Seeds by Barbara Wiese Harris (2014)

An engaging tale based on a true story originally written by the author for her niece. Morgan, the main character, interacts with the people and animals around her to create a watermelon patch so that she can enjoy spit n’ seeds with her uncle. The story is full of laughable twists that will delight the reader. The author, having studied botany, has craftily woven the life cycle of a watermelon into the plot and has further enhanced it with her illustrations. Grade Level: 3-4.

book cover for "Spit n Good Seeds" by Barbara Wiese Harris

Vietnamese Tales of Rabbits and Watermelons by Masao Sakairi (2006)

Two folktales are written for reading aloud. In the first tale, a trickster rabbit gets into one scrape after another but always manages to escape. The second story is about a good man who is wronged by the lies of rivals and triumphs with help from watermelons. Age: 9-12 years.

book_cover_Vietnamese_Tales_of_Rabbits_and_Watermelons_Masao_Sakairi

Watermelon Day by Kathi Appelt (1996)

There's a watermelon growing in the corner of the patch where the fence posts meet, and Jesse is waiting for it. Waiting for it to fill up with the cool summer rain and the hot summer sun. Waiting until at last it is ripe and ready for eating. Waiting until it is ready for her family's annual Watermelon Day. Reading Level: Elementary.

Watermelon Wishes by Lisa Moser (2006)

Charlie and his grandfather spend their summer growing a patch of watermelons and waiting for the perfect one to wish on. Reading Level: Elementary.

Watermelon Party by Jasmine Cabanaw (2014)

"Watermelon Party" is based on a real event that happened at Rocky Ridge Refuge. One Fourth of July, Janice put out a watermelon, and one by one the animals gathered around the watermelon, sharing in its juicy sweetness side by side, despite their differences in species and size. It is the perfect story of friendship, love, animal rescue, and good old summertime fun! The writing style is light and fun. The repetitive rhyming scheme will help children with their reading skills and learning action words. Reading Level: Elementary.

book_cover_Watermelon_Party_Jasmine_Cabanaw

Watermelon Madness by Taghreed Najjar (2018)

Noura is crazy about watermelon. She wants to eat nothing else, every day, at every meal. In fact, Noura thinks there is no such thing as too much watermelon — until one night, when the watermelon she has hidden in her room to eat all by herself begins to grow and Noura gets taken on a wild watermelon adventure! A story that can be the springboard for a discussion on favorite foods, eating a balanced diet, sharing with others, and trying new foods. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_Watermelon_Madness_Taghreed_Najjar

Radish:

Lessons and Activities

Seeds to Success: Growing Seeds Experiment

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
2.MD.A.1 2.MD.D.9 2.MD.D.10 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 3.MD.B.4	2-PS1-2 2-LS2-1 3-LS3-2 3-LS4-3 5-LS1-1	W.2.8 SL.2.1 SL.2.4 SL.2.6 W.3.8 SL.3.1 SL.3.4 SL.3.6 W.4.8 SL.4.1 SL.4.4 SL.4.6 W.5.8 SL.5.1 SL.5.4 SL.5.6

Kids Gardening: Vegetable Carving

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
					k-4 VA-CE-E2 VA-CE-E4 VA-AP-E2 VA-AP-E4 VA-AP-E6 VA-HP-E1 VA-HP-E4 5-8 VA-CE-M4 VA-CE-M5 VA-AP-M2 VA-AP-M3 VA-AP-M6 VA-HP-M1 VA-HP-M2 VA-HP-M4 VA-HP-M5 9-12 VA-CE-H3 VA-CE-H4 VA-CE-H5 VA-AP-H2 VA-AP-H4 VA-AP-H6 VA-HP-H1 VA-HP-H2 VA-HP-H4

Food Corps: Rocks to Radishes – Understanding the Food System

Students will make the connection between their food sources and geology. They will make the connection between the origins of food in nature and understand the important actors and stages involved from seed to fork. Students will develop a concept of what a “food system” is.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-ESS2-3 4-ESS3-2 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1 5-ESS2-1	SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1

Arizona State University: Radish Germination and Inquiry

Introduce students to germination, plant needs and how to set up a scientific experiment. Radish seed germination will be the focus as students choose a problem to investigate, design and conduct an experiment, then make observations and a conclusion. Note: Students are required to calculate the percentage of germination. Calculating percentage is introduced in Grade 6. However, students can calculate the percentage on calculators, if instructed or with teacher assistance.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.OA.A3	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-2 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	W.3.4,5 SL.3.1,4 W.4.4,5 SL.4.1,4 W.5.4,5 SL.5.1,4

National Science Teaching Association: The Radish Party

Students learn that stem strength and color, in addition to growth, are indicative of a healthy plant and healthy soil. Students will grow radish seeds in three soil types and predict which will grow the biggest radish.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	W.3.2,4 SL.3.1,2,3 W.4.2,4 SL.4.1,2,3 W.5.2,4 SL.5.1,2,3

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies: Cycles – From Rot to Radishes

The central investigation of this unit helps students answer the question, "Where does the stuff living things are made of go after those organisms die?" Throughout the unit, students grapple with the notion that matter is neither created nor destroyed, but it takes different forms as it cycles — as part of a living thing at one point in time, and as part of the non-living environment at another. This is a unit with eight lessons. Here are the links to the PDFs for each lesson: Lesson 1: A Challenge from GROW Students observe soil samples, talk about where soil nutrients come from, receive a letter from a company that wants to know if dead plants can be used as fertilizer, and then develop research questions. Lesson 2: Plans and Peer Reviews Students work in groups to design a fair test that will yield information for GROW, and then review each other's plans and decide on a final design. Supplemental resource: Testing Conditions That Promote Decomposition Lesson 3: Up and Running Students set up experiments to test the effects of compost tea on plant growth, learn about plant development, and then monitor their experiments for 3-5 weeks. Lesson 4: Exploring Plant and Soil Connection Students prepare for and conduct an outdoor investigation of soil in areas where plants and other landscape features differ, and then use their findings to think about plant and soil connections. Lesson 5: Planting Preferences Students work in groups to rank four sites according to their suitability for planting shrubs, and then independently complete a diagram showing a nutrient cycle for the preferred site. Lesson 6: Radish Results Students make and process final observations of their plants and graphs, discuss their data in groups, compile data for the whole class, discuss conclusions, and then write letters to GROW. Supplemental resource: Group Work Evaluation Lesson 7: GROW Gets an Answer Students complete their work for GROW by working in groups to create advertisements that teach the public about nutrient cycling and GROW's research and products. Supplemental resource: Group Work Evaluation and Portfolio Cover Sheet Lesson 8: Hiring a Scientist Students recommend who GROW should hire as a scientist after reviewing three job applications.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1,2 5.MD.A.1	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-2,3,4 4-LS1-1 4-ESS2-3 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	W.3.2,4,5,7 SL.3.1,2,3 W.4.2,4,5,7 SL.4.1,2,3 W.5.2,4,5 SL.5.1,2,3

Whole Kids Foundation and American Heart Association: Root Study

Root Study Lesson on Pages 59-64. Root vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet. Students will explore the function of roots by dissecting a radish. Students will keep a dissection log of their findings in their Garden Journal.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.3 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.3 4th grade 1-E-2.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.2

Center for Ecoliteracy: Raising Radishes

Students will learn about composting as a way to recycle food waste, and then conduct an experiment with radish seeds to see which type of soil is best for radishes: soil only, compost only, or a mixture of soil and compost. Using composting to lessen the human impact on the environment could be discussed. Supplemental resource: Comparative Tasting of Fruits and Vegetables — Students taste two or more varieties of a particular kind of fruit or vegetable, develop language to describe its nuances, and learn about its growing requirements and seasonality.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1,2 5.MD.A.1	3-LS3-2 3-LS4-2,3 4-LS1-1 4-ESS2-3 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RI.3.7 W.3.2,4,5,7 SL.3.1,2,3 W.4.2,4,5,7 SL.4.1,2,3 W.5.2,4,5 SL.5.1,2,3		3rd Grade 1-E-2.3 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.3 4th grade 1-E-2.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.2

Radish:

Videos and Other Resources

Hollis and Nancys Homestead: How to Grow Radishes (14:20)

How to Grow Radishes (PROGRESSION) Complete Growing Guide - YouTube

How to Grow Radishes – Complete Growing Guide

This growing guide will demonstrate how to grow radishes from start to finish. (6:37)

Radish Time-Lapse (68 days)

This is a time-lapse video of radishes growing. (2:35)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Radish Brochure

Brochures containing facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the page to download the flyer.

Center for Ecoliteracy: Nourishing Students: Posters

Display these posters in kitchens, cafeterias, classrooms, and during after-school programs as a fun and engaging way to promote fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy eating. Nourishing Students: Enrichment Activities for Grades K–5 coordinates with these five posters and makes after-school, out-of-school, and summer programs more memorable. This set of free, downloadable full-color posters features wildlife animals with the following fruit or vegetable: Radish, Strawberry, Grape, Tomato, Orange.

Radish:

Books

Rosita and the Night of the Radishes by Dorothy Thurgood Manning (2016)

Young Rosita competes in Oaxaca, Mexico's radish carving contest which is held every December 23rd. She hopes to win first prize and use the money to help her family's failing farm.

Runaway Radish by Janice Levy (2008)

Don Pedro wants to care the best radish sculpture for the Nigh of the Radishes. One radish won't cooperate. Written in a style reminicent of the Gingerbread Man. Based on the annual festival in Oaxaca, Mexico

Rosey Posey and the Perfectly Pink Radish: Bloomers Island Garden of Stories #2 by Cynthia Wylie and Courtney Carbone (2018)

Follow young Rosey Posey in a magical, beautifully illustrated story as she attends boarding school on Bloomers Island to learn about gardening and growing her own vegetables. When Professor Sage announces the Very Very Veggie Challenge, Rosey isn’t sure she wants to participate.

book_cover_Rosey_Posey_and_the_Perfectly_Pink_Raddish

The Red Radish by Twiggle Books

Working together and helping friends are the focuses of this Twiggle Book. When a rabbit has trouble pulling out a radish from the ground, one by one his friends — big and small — come to his rescue. They pull and pull together until the radish pops out of the ground. Then they all share eating it.

Rah, Rah, Radishes!: A Vegetable Chant by April Pulley Sayre (2020)

Veggies take the stage in a rollicking ode to healthy eating in this Classic Board Book edition of "Rah, Rah, Radishes!"

book_cover_Rah_Rah_Radishes_April_Pulley_Sayre

Rice:

Lessons and Activities

Pilot Light: Growing and Eating Food Around the World- The Story of Rice

Students will learn about food sources and origins by watching how rice is grown and cooked in different ways around the world and then writing a story about the journey of a grain of rice from field to plate from the point of view of the rice.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		3.W.3 4.W.4 4.W.3 4.W.4 5.W.3 5.W.4

Ag in the Classroom: Wild Rice

Students explore the life cycle of wild rice, compare the steps of the traditional Native wild rice harvest with a cultivated wild rice harvest, and create their own wild rice bowls.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1

Kernels of Truth: Everybody Cooks Rice Cooperative Lesson

In this multi-day lesson, students will work together in groups to learn about the economic aspects of growing, harvesting, and consuming products, using themes from Norah Dooley’s Everybody Cooks Rice. Each student will be responsible for an individual choice assignment. This assignment will be selected from a given list of options. Students will be responsible for presenting their information (individual choice assignment) to their group members. Groups will then prepare a “lesson” or presentation to teach their fellow classmates about their pieces of the jigsaw.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.4.4 SL.4.5 SL.5.4 SL.5.5	3.8.3		VA-CE-E4

USA Rice Federation: Think Rice

Introduce your students to the All-American grain — rice! Students learn how rice growing has contributed to American history since colonial times, and how today’s U.S. rice growers not only help sustain wetland habitats but also help reduce carbon emissions by providing a close-to-home source of good nutrition. Includes a recipe-building activity to reinforce how rice can help families meet the MyPlate guidelines for a balanced diet.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NBT.A.1-2 4.NBT.A,3 5.NBT.B.5	3-LS3-2 3-LS4-2 3-LS4-2-3 3-LS4-2-4 4-LS1-1 4-ESS3-1 4-ESS3-2 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1 5-ESS2-1 5ESS3-1	RI.3.1,2,3,5,7,9 RI.4.1,2,3,5,7,9 RI5.1,2,3,5,7	3.15 ,16,26, 28 4.12	3.1-E-2 3.3-E-2 3.5-E-1 4.1-E-1 4.2-E-2 4.5-E-3,5 5.1-E-1 5.1-E-2 5.5E-3,5

Seeds to Success: My Family’s Food Traditions

This lesson, modified from Nourish’s Food Traditions Lesson challenges students to work with their families to conduct an interview and then create a display celebrating the food traditions of their homes. Through research and presentation, students will explore all the different ways in which food nourishes families and communities. While this lesson is generically written, it can easily be modified to ask about the families’ specific food traditions related to rice or other ingredients.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.K.1 SL.1.1 SL.2.1 W.K.7 W.1.7 W.2.7 W.3.4 W.3.6 SL.3.1 SL.3.3 SL.3.4 W.4.4 W.4.6 SL.4.1 SL.4.3 SL.4.4 W.5.4 W.5.6 W.5.7	1.3.6	2-E-1.1

Focus on the Family: Rice Art Mosaics

Have you ever seen a mosaic at a museum? Artists take small pieces of broken tile and arrange them to make beautiful designs. With a little imagination, you can create your own mosaics using materials from your kitchen.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
					PK-4.3 VA-CE-E4

Rice:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Rice

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month has a long history in Louisiana, although it is not native here. It is actually one of several contributions brought from West Africa to the Southern table. It’s rice! Rice is an essential ingredient in Cajun cuisine, such as gumbo, jambalaya, etouffee, and boudin. Join me, here in Acadia Parish, as we uncover the grains of truth behind this simple, hearty dish.

U.S Rice in the Classroom Workbook

Developed by USA Rice and Chartwells for National Nutrition Month, this fun-filled workbook will get your students excited about healthy foods, including U.S.-grown rice. The book is perfect for 4th to 6th graders and includes educational puzzles, games and surprising facts that explain the history and science of rice, farming and nutrition. Recipes and kid-friendly cooking instructions included, too.

MN Ag in the Classroom Harvest of the Month: Wild Rice

Wild rice is a staple in Minnesota. Watch how the White Earth Reservation in Naytahwuash, Minnesota shows how important wild rice is to the Ojibwe tribe. Logan Cloud shows the process of rice parching and finishing.

Rice- How Does it Grow? (Part one)

Flooded rice paddies have become a big problem for our planet. Meet a farmer going against the current, growing dryland (or upland) rice in a regenerative, sustainable, small-scale practice.

How It’s Made: Rice

Rice is arguably the most popular food on Earth. Here's how they make it on a global scale

Think Rice: Explore the U.S. Rice Industry

Visit rice fields & mills to discover the U.S.-grown rice difference in this chef-hosted virtual tour.

Rice:

Books

Let’s go Nuts (Seeds We Eat) by April Sayre (2013)

What do nuts, beans, grains, and even some spices have in common? They’re all seeds—seeds we can eat! So get ready to greet lentils and limas, take a crack at coconuts and cashews, and say hi to rye and buckwheat. You’ll soon be seeing seeds in a whole new way!

Chef Creole by Johnette Downing(2008)

There was a man from New Orleans and his name was Chef Creole. His hair was made of rice, his eyes of red beans, and his feet of beignets. Young readers will delight in this Louisiana picture-book adaptation of the song Aiken Drum.

Thomas Jefferson Grows a Nation by Peggy Thomas (2015)

Thomas Jefferson was more than a president and patriot. He was also a planter and gardener who loved to watch things grow—everything from plants and crops to even his brand-new nation. As minister to France, Jefferson promoted all things American, sharing corn and pecans with his Parisian neighbors. As secretary of state, he encouraged his fellow farmers to grow olives, rice, and maple trees. In this meticulously researched picture book for older readers, author Peggy Thomas uncovers Jefferson’s passion for agriculture and his country. And Stacy Innerst’s incredibly original illustrations offer the right balance of reverence and whimsy. Back matter includes an author’s note on Jefferson’s legacy today; timeline, bibliography; place to visit (Monticello); and source notes.

The Kid Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews (2014)

This book tells the story of Nobel Laureate, Norman Borlaug. Norman grew up as an average farm boy in Iowa, but later his work as a plant scientist reached far and wide to help improve the growth of wheat, rice, and corn all over the world. This book highlights the benefits of emerging science, but also has an underlying message to teach kids that, "Every choice you make, good or bad, can make a difference."

One Grain of Rice by Demi (1997)

A mathematical folktale illustrating the concept of doubling using rice as the example.

Glorious Grasses : The Grains (Plants We Eat) by Meredith Sayles Hughes (1998)

Discusses how humans have cultivated and used various grains, including wheat, rice, corn, millet, oats, barley, and rye, and the nutritional value of these cereal products, and offers recipes

Red Beans & Rice by Jeanette Weiland (2020)

Red Beans & Rice is a lively read, encompassing multiple characters, with hand-drawn typography highlighting the children’s voices. Young readers will enjoy spotting hidden treasures throughout the pages along with the creatures and critters that share a home in this delicious region of Louisiana. Aspiring chefs will appreciate the extras, including a kid-friendly red beans and rice recipe from restauranteur Dickie Brennan and a vegan version of the dish by Sweet Potato Soul author and blogger, Jenné Claiborne, among others.

Everybody Cooks Rice by Norah Dooley (1991)

In this multicultural picture book, Carrie goes from one neighbor's house to the next looking for her brother, who is late for dinner. She discovers that although each family is from a different country, everyone makes a rice dish at dinnertime. Readers will enjoy trying the simple recipes that correspond to each family's unique rice dish.

Shrimp:

Lessons and Activities

LUMCON: What are you tasting?

In this lesson, students will analyze the impacts that outside environmental factors can impact the taste quality of shrimp. Students will create a hypothesis then test this by collecting and analyzing data.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	5-ESS3-1 6-MS-LS2-1 7-MS-LS2-4 8-MS-ESS3-3

Salt Lake Brine Shrimp: Shrimp School

In this lesson, students will identify the environmental conditions that are necessary for brine shrimp to hatch and develop. Students will examine how adding pollutants to the environment can be harmful to living organisms.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 3-LS4-4 4-LS1-1 4-ESS2-3	1-SL-1,2,3,4,5,6 2-SL-1,2,3,4,6 3-SL-1,3, 4,6 4-SL-1, 4

LUMCON: Your Coastal Classroom Activity Book

This activity book includes several coloring sheets and activities that deal with the unique ecosystem of Louisiana’s marshes. These items also include the shrimp life cycle information, including how it begins life, moves into estuary out to the Gulf of Mexico.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS2-1 3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-PS3-1 6-MS-LS2-1 6-MS-LS2-2 6-MS-ESS3-4

Education.com: Salinity and Hatching Brine Shrimp Eggs

In this lesson, students will examine how water salinity impacts the hatching and development of brine shrimp. Students will determine what other environmental conditions could change the development of brine shrimp. Salinity and Hatching Brine Shrimp Eggs Lab Page

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1 5-ESS2-5 6-MS-LS2-2

Shrimp:

Videos and Other Resources

Nat Geo Kids: Shrimp

Some adult shrimp can grow to more than 12 inches long! Learn more amazing facts about the shrimp in this video from National Geographic Kids.

National Geographic: Thanks to Shrimp, These Waters Stay Fresh and Clean (3:45)

In this short film by Freshwaters Illustrated, dive into a busy tropical stream ecosystem and learn how shrimp, crabs, and other invertebrates are creating a nutrient-rich environment for wildlife to flourish and humans to enjoy.

PBS NewsHour: Tiger shrimp invade Louisiana waters (3:18)

An invasive species known as tiger shrimp have been spotted in the Gulf of Mexico over the last six years. Charlie Whinham talks with shrimpers and researchers about how these huge shrimp could cause big problems for Louisiana's multi-billion dollar industry.

Gulf Coast Seafood- Behind the Scenes: The Gulf Coast Shrimp Industry

“Shrimping is a way of life here,” says this third-generation shrimper. Learn more about the Gulf Cost shrimp industry in this behind-the-scenes video.

Shrimp:

Books

Three Little Shrimp by J. Steven Spires (2017)

Dive into crystal blue waters to follow three very curious little shrimp as they explore beneath the surface. Dangers surround them--egrets, red fish, and a loggerhead turtle all love eating shrimp! Even the fisherman's net is out to capture them. When the little shrimp venture out of their troupe they find more than they expected in this entertaining and educational adventure for beginning readers. This updated edition provides beginning readers and teachers up-to-date information on this curious crustacean in "The Amazing Shrimp" page packed with definitions, statistics, and "you won't believe it" facts about shrimp.

Shrimp For Kids by Rachel Smith (2015)

This is a nonfiction book that discusses how shrimp act, where they live, the history of shrimp and humans, and more.

Sweet Corn:

Lessons and Activities

Kids Gardening: Three Sisters Garden

Students will explore the benefits of companion planting by investigating the historical Native American planting of Three Sisters Gardens. Students will also learn how the growth habits and biology of certain plants can complement each other to form a symbiotic or mutually beneficial relationship.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	K-LS1-1 K-ESS3-1 1-LS3-1 2-LS2-1 3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 4-ESS2-3 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	SL.K.1,2,3 RL.K.1,2,3 SL.1.1,2,3 RL.1.1,2,3 SL.2.1,2,3 RL.2.1 SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1		4th Grade 1- E-2.4 1- E-4.2

National Ag in the Classroom: Get Popping!

This lesson from National Agriculture in the Classroom allows students to discover how popcorn is grown and explore the phenomenon of how popcorn pops. Teach students how seeds are planted, the germination process, and more.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 5-PS1-1,3	SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1 W.3.1,4 W.4.1,4 W.5.1,4		4th Grade 1- E-4.2

National Ag in the Classroom: Three Sisters Garden

Students will investigate the "three sisters" crops (corn, beans, and squash) and explore the benefit to planting these crops together. Students will also learn about Native American Legends and plant growth. Three Sisters Garden PDF

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RL.3.1,2,3 RL.4.1,2,3 RL.5.1,2,3 RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Food Corps: Growing Native American Heritage – Three Sisters

This activity explores the foods, the customs, and the stories that evolved from the planting of corn, beans, and squash—the Three Sisters—which is a tradition of several Native American tribes from the northeastern region of North America. The lesson also uses myths/legends and traditional stories to teach about American Indians beliefs and cultures.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RL.3.1,2,3 RL.4.1,2,3 RL.5.1,2,3 RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Sweet Corn:

Videos and Other Resources

Maryland Farm & Harvest: The Difference Between SWEET Corn & FIELD Corn (4:43)

Did you know there's a big difference between the corn you eat on the cob and the corn that's made into cornmeal? Al Spoler stops by Hopkins Produce in Havre de Grace and shows us the difference between sweet corn (which you eat fresh, frozen, or canned) and field corn (which is dried out and used for cornmeal and livestock feed.) Dave Hopkins shows Al how to pick sweet corn by hand, and then his wife Michele has a great recipe for fresh corn soup!

TED-Ed: The history of the world according to corn

Trace the 9,000 year old history of the domestication of corn, or maize, and its effects on global agriculture.

American Agricultural Technology: Harvest and Process Millions of Tons of Sweet Corn (8:01)

Three Sisters Legend

The legend explains the history of this Native American companion planting method.

Sweet Corn:

Books

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

Thomas Jefferson Grows a Nation by Peggy Thomas (2015)

Corn Aplenty by Dana Meachen Rau (2009)

Two children watch a local farmer grow a crop of corn, and as the corn develops—from seed to harvest time—so does the friendship between the children and the farmer. This simple Step 1 Reader features word repetition and patterning and is perfect for emergent readers.

From Kernel to Corncob by Ellen Weiss (2007)

Using simple text and illustrations, describes how a kernel grows into a piece of corn.

The Popcorn Book Paperback by Tomie dePaola (1978)

What popcorn is, how it's stored, and how it's cooked, plus legends and recipes.

Corn Is Maize: The Gift of the Indians by Aliki (1996)

Maize has been an important crop from its beginning as a simple grass plant to its hybridization with teosinte to new protein-rich kinds. Used by both Indians and Pilgrims as food, maize is now also used in medicines, soaps, glues, powders, and other products. Popcorn, corn on the cob, cornbread, tacos, tamales, and tortillas—all of these and many other good things come from one amazing plant: corn!

The Life and Times of Corn by Charles Micucci (2009)

What grain has seeds in all colors of the rainbow, can grow twenty feet high, is often harvested by moonlight, and is more valuable to the United States than gold?

Corn by Gail Gibbons (2009)

Find out everything about this versatile and important grain—its history as a crop, the four main types, and how we grow and use it to make everything from food to paper to medicine!

The Biography of Corn (How Did That Get Here?) by L Michelle Nielsen (2007)

Maize, or com, was the staple food of many early cultures in South America, Mesoamerica, and the Caribbean. The Biography of Corn will teach young readers how the farming of corn spread to the rest of the world and how corn may be one answer to today's problem of fossil fuel consumption.

Snap Beans:

Lessons and Activities

Seeds to Success: Growing Seeds Experiment

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
2.MD.A.1 2.MD.D.9 2.MD.D.10 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 3.MD.B.4	2-PS1-2 2-LS2-1 3-LS3-2 3-LS4-3 5-LS1-1	W.2.8 SL.2.1 SL.2.4 SL.2.6 W.3.8 SL.3.1 SL.3.4 SL.3.6 W.4.8 SL.4.1 SL.4.4 SL.4.6 W.5.8 SL.5.1 SL.5.4 SL.5.6

Kids Gardening: Three Sisters Garden

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	K-LS1-1 K-ESS3-1 1-LS3-1 2-LS2-1 3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 4-ESS2-3 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	SL.K.1,2,3 RL.K.1,2,3 SL.1.1,2,3 RL.1.1,2,3 SL.2.1,2,3 RL.2.1 SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1		4th Grade 1- E-2.4 1- E-4.2

Kids Gardening: Let There Be Light

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1 4.MD.B.4 5.MD.B.2	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-PS3-2.4 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-PS3-1	SL.3.1,4 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4		4th Grade 1-E-2.1 1-E-2. 2 1-E-2.4 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 5th grade 1-E-4.1 7-E-1.2

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: Three Sisters Garden

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RL.3.1,2,3 RL.4.1,2,3 RL.5.1,2,3 RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Food Corps: Growing Native American Heritage – Three Sisters

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RL.3.1,2,3 RL.4.1,2,3 RL.5.1,2,3 RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: Magic Beans and Giant Plants

Students will plant seeds and make considerations on which conditions affect plant growth. They will design and conduct experiments using a problem-solving process and compare and contrast to understand the parameters that influence the health and growth of living things. Magic Beans and Giant Plants PDF

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1,2 5.MD.A.1	3-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-PS3-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Snap Beans:

Videos and Other Resources

Three Sisters Legend

The legend explains the history of this Native American companion planting method.

Green Beans – Growing Step by Step [How to Do It]

A step-by-step video on growing and harvesting green beans. (5:40)

Green Bean Time-Lapse

This is a time-lapse video of green beans growing in a hydroponics system. (7:21)

Snap Beans:

Books

Let’s go Nuts (Seeds We Eat) by April Sayre (2013)

Jody’s Beans by Malachy Doyle (2002)

When Jody’s grandfather comes to visit, he brings along a packet of seeds for them to plant. Through spring, summer, and fall, Jody watches her plants sprout, flower, and grow lots of beans. Soon, as Jody’s parents await a new baby, Grandpa and Jody are picking the beans — and waiting for next spring

First Peas to the Table: How Thomas Jefferson Inspired a School Garden by Susan Grigsby (2012)

Maya loves contests, so she is excited when her teacher announces they will plant a school garden like Thomas Jefferson's garden at Monticello―and they'll have a "First Peas to the Table" contest, just like Jefferson and his neighbors had each spring. Maya plants her pea seeds with a secret head start―found in Jefferson’s Garden Book―and keeps careful notes in her garden journal. But her friend Shakayla has plans of her own for the contest

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

Green Bean! Green Bean! by Patricia Thomas (2016)

Plant it ― water it ― weed it ― protect it ― and under the blossoms is the perfect shady nook to read a book! Pretty soon it's time to pick all those long, lean beans, and to harvest a full season of garden knowledge and experience.

book_cover_Green_Bean_Green_Bean_Patricia_Thomas

Green Bean Dance by Ryan J. Schroeder

Finally, a book that gives children a way to discover the JOY in trying new foods. It's time to do the "Green Bean Dance”! Children will delight in the sounds and actions in the story. They'll go from not wanting to eat their vegetables to dancing at the opportunity. Parents will enjoy the simple words that tell an important message — you always have to try new things to find out if you'll like them. "Green Bean Dance" is the perfect book for kids just beginning to read or for parents to read to their child before dinner or at bedtime.

book_cover_Green_Bean_Dance_Ryan_Schroeder

How Martha Saved Her Parents from Green Beans by David LaRochelle and Mark Fearing (2013)

Martha HATES green beans. When some mean, green bandits stroll into town, anyone who ever said "Eat your green beans" is in big trouble. But when the beans kidnap Martha's parents, Martha is forced to take action. She can think of only one way to stop the villainous veggies from taking over her town, and it’s not pretty...or tasty. Featuring absurdly funny text and illustrations with attitude, this is a hilarious read for everyone — even the pickiest of eaters.

book_cover_How_Martha_Saved_her_Parents_David_LaRochelle

Squash:

Lessons and Activities

FRESHFARM FoodPrints: Investigating Plant Traits

The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand that all plants have characteristics that they inherit from their parents. Students will compare traits among pumpkins, search for plants with traits that support survival in the garden and imagine the offspring of a number of different plants based on the traits they observe.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS3-1	RI.3.7 SL.3.1

Kids Gardening: Three Sisters Garden

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	K-LS1-1 K-ESS3-1 1-LS3-1 2-LS2-1 3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 4-ESS2-3 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	SL.K.1,2,3 RL.K.1,2,3 SL.1.1,2,3 RL.1.1,2,3 SL.2.1,2,3 RL.2.1 SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1		4th Grade 1- E-2.4 1- E-4.2

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

California Harvest of the Month: Winter Squash

This Harvest of the Month newsletter has activities that give students the opportunity to explore, taste, and learn about the importance of eating winter squash. It also includes information on its origins and how it grows.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		Grade 3 1- E-2.3 Grade 4 1- E-2.4 1- E-4.2

National Ag in the Classroom: Three Sisters Garden

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RL.3.1,2,3 RL.4.1,2,3 RL.5.1,2,3 RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Winter Squash

Students will explore, taste, and learn about eating winter squash. Activities include a squash matching game, mapping the history, and making a squash recipe.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3 W.3.2 W.4.2 W.3.2		Grade 3 1- E-2.3 Grade 4 1- E-2.4 1- E-4.2

Food Corps: Growing Native American Heritage – Three Sisters

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	RL.3.1,2,3 RL.4.1,2,3 RL.5.1,2,3 RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

California Harvest of the Month: Zucchini

Information on zucchini with ideas for the classroom. Includes a taste test guide, recipes, nutrition information, and botanical facts. Students will learn growing information for zucchini and complete the activity "Zucchini Math".

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.A.3 3.MD.A.2 4.NF.B.4 4.MD.A.1,2 5.NF.A.1,2 5.NF.B.3,4,5,6 5.MD.A.1	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		Grade 3 1- E-2.3 Grade 4 1- E-2.4 1- E-4.2

Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom: Cool Cucurbits

Students will learn about the group of vegetables known as cucurbits and use cucurbits in a variety of creative activities. Activities include playwriting, math and reading activities, writing haikus and interpreting poetry, mapping, and scientific experiments with squash.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF. A.1 4.NF.A.1,2	3-LS1-1, 4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3			VA-CE-E4

Louisiana Harvest of the Month: Just How Big is That Seed?

This lesson focuses on using the mathematical skill of measuring an object, in this case three varieties of summer squash seeds. The lesson can also be adapted for winter squash. As part of the introduction to the lesson, students identify the three types of summer squash: zucchini, yellow straightneck or crookneck, and patty pan. Students will also examine the inside of each squash after it is cut in half. The purpose of the seed is discussed as well as the role of the fruit that surrounds it. The lesson can also be adapted for winter squash.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
4.MD.A.1	4-LS1-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Louisiana Harvest of the Month: Holey Zucchini

This lesson focuses on a simple experiment that examines the protective character of summer squash skin. In this experiment, the teacher will prepare summer squash (zucchini) by poking holes with a fork in half of them. Students will examine the squash after two weeks of being kept at room temperature and compare the punctured zucchini with fresh zucchini. The lesson can also be adapted for winter squash.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Mystery Science: Why Do Plants Grow Flowers?

In this e-lesson, students learn how and why flowers are pollinated. Students will make flower models out of paper and bee models out of pipe cleaners. Students fly their bees from flower to flower and observe what happens to the flower’s pollen during this process. This is a great lesson that can be easily adapted to squash flowers by coloring the flowers yellow. This would be a good place to introduce male and female flowers on cucurbits. The "Identifying Male and Female Squash Flowers and How to Hand-Pollinate" video explains pollination in cucurbits and shows the male and female flowers.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Edible Schoolyard: Seed Sleuth

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Squash:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Winter Squash

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month was so vital to the early settlers of our country, that they may not have survived without it during those harsh New England winters. Today they are every part of our autumn celebrations. It’s winter squash! The indigenous people of that time taught us all that we know and love about pumpkins, squash and gourds. This is Chenier Farms, where they’re going squash our curiosity on how this crop is grown, harvested, and prepared into a cornucopia of treats!

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Summer Squash

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month comes in all sorts of beautiful sizes and colors and its name celebrates, probably your favorite season. It’s summer squash! There are some many interesting things to know about this amazing group of vegetables. Let’s head out to the farm to find out more!

Three Sisters Legend

The legend explains the history of this Native American companion planting method.

1,223-Pound Giant Pumpkin Time-Lapse

This is a time-lapse video of a 1,223-pound giant pumpkin from seed to scale. The pumpkin was grown from a seed out of the 2,009-pound world record pumpkin grown by Ron Wallace in Rhode Island. (3:40)

Pumpkin Growth Time-Lapse

Time-lapse video showing growth of a pumpkin from seed to mature fruit – 108 days and nights. (4:26)

Growing the Home Garden: Lots of blooms but no Squash? This might be the problem!

Squash produces separate male and female flowers. If you don't have both male and female flowers, you can't have pollinated flowers for squash production. Female flowers of squash, zucchini, and other cucurbits will have a "mini-fruit" just underneath the flower. That's the ovary. If it is just a stem, then you have a male flower. Male flowers almost always form first to prepare pollinators for the presence of the squash plant. It's designed to attract them to the squash plant to improve pollination. (4:26)

Identifying Male and Female Squash Flowers and How to Hand-Pollinate

There are male and female squash, zucchini, and cucumber flowers. The female flowers have little baby squash on them — but if the flower doesn't get pollinated, the squash will grow a bit and die off. Sad. Here is a basic introduction to male and female squash flowers and hand-pollination. (2:38)

How Summer Squash Grow

Video showing the development of zucchini squash from immature fruit with flower to mature fruit on the plant. (1:26)

Summer Squash Growing Time-Lapse

Time-lapse video showing growth of summer squash from germination to flowering to fruit. (0:47)

Squash:

Books

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

Too Many Pumpkins by Linda White (1996)

Rebecca Estelle has hated pumpkins ever since she was a girl when pumpkins were often the only food her family had. When an enormous pumpkin falls off a truck and smashes in her yard, she shovels dirt over the pieces and forgets about them. But those slimy pumpkin smithereens sprout up in autumn, and Rebecca Estelle finds a sea of pumpkins in her garden.

Pumpkin Pumpkin by Jeanne Titherington (1990)

Jamie plants a pumpkin seed in the spring and, after watching it grow all summer, carves a face in it for Halloween! But best of all, he saves some seeds that he will plant again next spring.

The Pumpkin Book by Gail Gibbons (1999)

In this cheerfully illustrated, simply presented book, children can learn about the growth cycle and many varieties of pumpkins, and even how to plant their own. Award-winning author Gail Gibbons also relates the special role pumpkins played in the first Thanksgiving, the history behind carving pumpkins into jack'o'lanterns, and how pumpkins are still part of our celebrations today.

From Seed to Pumpkin: A Fall Book for Kids by Wendy Pfeffer (2015)

Read and find out about how pumpkins grow from a tiny yellow seed to a pumpkin in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

Pumpkin (Life Cycle of a . . .) by Ron Fridell and Patricia Walsh (2009)

How big can pumpkins grow? Why do pumpkins have very big leaves? What can we make with pumpkins? Explaining concepts through stunning photographs and simple text, 'Life Cycle of a Pumpkin' takes an in-depth look at this familiar but fascinating plant.

Benji and the 24 Pound Banana Squash by Alan C. Fox (2017)

Benji has made up his mind: he's going to grow the biggest banana squash ever from the tiny seeds he saved last summer. In spring, when the soil is soft, he plants the seeds, waters them, waits, waters them and waits. Will his dream come true?

I Heard It from Alice Zucchini: Poems About the Garden (2006) by Juanita Havill

From the still chill of a winter night to the ra-ta-ta, ra-ta-ta, ra-ta-ta-too of a lively vegetable stew, these twenty whimsical poems celebrate the joys of a garden from start to finish. A tour de force of imagination, I Heard It from Alice Zucchini invites you to join in the Pea Pod Chant, wander through the Rhubarb Forest, dance with the Dainty Doily Dill Weed, gossip with Alice Zucchini, and hold your breath on the pumpkin's enchanted evening.

Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin, Pie by Jill Esbaum (2007)

Photographs show the life cycle of a pumpkin. Nonfiction. Age range: 4-8 years.

book_cover_Seed_Sprout_Pumpkin_Pie_Jill_Esbaum

How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? by Margaret McNamara (2007)

A teacher and his students consider how many seeds might be in the big, medium, and small pumpkins that are sitting on his desk. They make estimates and use skip counting to find out the answer. Age range: 4-8 years.

book_cover_How_many_seeds_Are_in_a_Pumpkin_Margaret_McNamara

Plant Plumbing by Susan Blackaby (2003)

Learn how plants store food during the winter and carry water up to the leaves through their roots and stems. Age range: 4-8 years.

book_cover_Plant_Plumbing_Susan_Blackaby

Pumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper (2005)

A squabble between friends happens while they are cooking pumpkin soup. Age range: 4-8 years.

The Little Squash Seed by Gayla Seale (2002)

How is it that a dull, dried-up little seed can produce a brightly colored nutritious vegetable? Miraculous things do happen when a seed is planted in the dirt and cared for by an attentive gardener. Kids can put on their garden gloves, grab their tools, and join the little squash seed, the gardener, and his grandchildren for a season of planting, changing, and growing. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_the_Little_Squash_Seed_Gayla_Scale

Carlos and the Squash Plant by Jan Stevens (1993)

Carlos’s mother warns Carlos to take a bath each evening after a long day of gardening. See what happens day after day as Carlos refuses to wash the dirt from his body, specifically from inside his ears. Printed in both English and Spanish, this story offers an inside look at Hispanic heritage. Reading level: Elementary.

xbook_cover_Carlos_and_the_Squash_Plant_Jan_Stevens

Zora’s Zucchini by Katherine Pryor (2017)

What do you do with too much zucchini? Have a garden swap! Winner of the 2016 Growing Good Kids Book Award. Ages: 4-10 years.

book_cover_Zoras_Zucchini_Katherine_Pryor

Strawberries:

Lessons and Activities

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Berries

A variety of lessons to explore, taste, and learn about berries.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		WS-3-2 WS-4-2 WS-5-2

New Hampshire Harvest of the Month: Berries Harvest Lessons

A variety of lessons to explore, taste, and learn about berries.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1

Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis: Saving the Strawberry Farm

In this lesson, students learn that saving is essential to economic well-being, especially in times of extreme economic downturn. They read "Saving Strawberry Farm," a story about a Depression-era family attempting to save a neighbor's farm by waging a penny auction. Students hear about the lack of goods and services available and the high rate of joblessness during this terrible time. They simulate a bank run to see how even those with savings were affected. Finally, they learn that savings are safe in banks today. Saving the Strawberry Farm PDF

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		RL.3.1,2,3 RL.4.1,2,3 RL.5.1,2,3 RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3	3.15.C

California Ag in the Classroom: Strawberries Commodity Sheet

This resource contains facts and lesson ideas on strawberries. Strawberries can be used to make several tasty and nutritious snack foods. Students will demonstrate measuring, food processing, and food safety skills as they make a strawberry treat.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3-MD-2 4-MD-2 5-MD-3		RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		Grade 3 1- E-2.3 Grade 4 1- E-2.4 1- E-4.2

National Ag in the Classroom: FoodMASTER Fruits

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Kids Gardening: Exploring Food Preservation

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	5-PS1-2,3,4	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3	4.3	3rd 7-E-3.3

Kids Gardening: Eat a Rainbow

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 W.3.1, 4, 7,10 W.4.1, 4,7,10 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3, 4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

Life Lab: Garden Pollinators

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1 3-LS3-2 3-LS4-2 3-LS4-3 4-LS1-1 4-LS1-2 4-ESS2-3	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3 W.3.2 W.4.2 W.5.2

Upper Valley Farm to School Harvest Lessons: Berries

Harvest lessons provide a fun way for classrooms to explore, taste, and learn about eating more fruits and vegetables. Included are lessons covering a variety of subjects including geography, nutrition, reading and listening comprehension, measurement and graphing.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.4	3-LS1-1 3-LS3-1 4-LS1-1	RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,4 SL.5.1,4	3.28	3RD GRADE 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,3 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 7-E-1.1,2 7-E-2.2

Strawberries:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Strawberries

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is grown in every U.S. state and every Canadian providence. It became the official Louisiana state fruit in 1980 and it’s celebrated each year at its very own festival in Ponchatoula. It’s strawberries! Join me and let’s learn a little more about what makes this fruit the berry best!

Strawberry Plant Runners

Shows runners coming off strawberries in pots and how these runners make new plants. (1:56)

Time-Lapse of Strawberry Plant

A time-lapse video of a strawberry ripening and strawberry flowers opening and closing. (1:49)

Strawberries:

Books

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher by Molly Bang (1996)

A wordless picture book about a woman bringing strawberries home from the market who outwits an imp trying to take them. Age: 5-8 years.

Saving Strawberry Farm by Deborah Hopkinson (2005)

In the hot summer of 1933, a young boy helps rally his town to save the local strawberry farm from a bank auction. Set in the Depression, the book focuses on simple pleasures like homemade lemonade and the importance of community. It also features a description of the Depression era in the back of the book. Age: 5-10 years.

book_cover_Saving_Strawberry_Farm_Deborah_Hopkinson

Sweet Peppers:

Lessons and Activities

Kids Gardening: Vegetable Carving

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
					k-4 VA-CE-E2 VA-CE-E4 VA-AP-E2 VA-AP-E4 VA-AP-E6 VA-HP-E1 VA-HP-E4 5-8 VA-CE-M4 VA-CE-M5 VA-AP-M2 VA-AP-M3 VA-AP-M6 VA-HP-M1 VA-HP-M2 VA-HP-M4 VA-HP-M5 9-12 VA-CE-H3 VA-CE-H4 VA-CE-H5 VA-AP-H2 VA-AP-H4 VA-AP-H6 VA-HP-H1 VA-HP-H2 VA-HP-H4

FoodMASTER: Vegetables

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.1	4-LS1-1 5-PS1-3 5-PS1-4	RI.3.1,2,3, RI.4.1,2,3 RI.5.2,3 WS.3.2,8 WS.4.2,4,8 WS.5.2,4, 8 SL.3.1,2,3,4,6 SL.4. 1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3,4

Florida Harvest of the Month: Bell Pepper

A variety of bell pepper lessons and activities. Language Arts: Pepper Preferences Math: Pepper Production Science: Bell Pepper Parts Social Studies: Bell Pepper Routes

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3RD GRADE 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,3 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 7-E-1.1,2 7-E-2.2

California Ag in the Classroom: Bell Pepper Commodity Sheet

This commodity sheet has facts and activities centered on bell peppers. Peppers add color, flavor, and texture to salads, pizza, pasta, and ethnic foods. In recent years, salsa has become one of America’s favorite condiments. Along with fresh tomatoes, salsa often contains bell and chili peppers. Students will analyze, determine ingredient ratios, and explore the essential role of peppers in salsa.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.2 4-MD-2		RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3RD GRADE 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,3 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 7-E-1.1,2 7-E-2.2

Wisconsin Harvest of the Month: Peppers

A fact sheet about peppers with information on health benefits, cooking tips, biology and ecology facts. Classroom connection activities cover biology, business, and math.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3RD GRADE 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,3 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 7-E-1.1,2 7-E-2.2

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Edible Schoolyard: Seed Sleuth

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Kids Gardening: Eat a Rainbow

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 W.3.1, 4, 7,10 W.4.1, 4,7,10 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3, 4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

Sweet Peppers:

Videos and Other Resources

True Food TV: Bell Peppers | How Does It Grow?

Very informative video on how bell peppers are grown commercially. (6:05)

Time-Lapse of a Bell Pepper Ripening

Time-lapse video showing growth of a bell pepper from flower to green pepper to red pepper. (4:45)

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Bell Pepper Brochure

Brochures containing facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the page to download the flyer.

Sweet Peppers:

Books

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

Green is a Chile Pepper: A Book of Colors by Roseanne Greenfield Thong (2014)

Featured objects are Latino in origin, and all are universal in appeal. With rich, boisterous illustrations, fun-to-read rhyming text, and an informative glossary, this playful concept book will reinforce the colors found in every child’s day! Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_Green_is_a_Chile_Pepper_Roseanne_Thong

Grandma’s Gumbo by Deborah Kadair (2003)

Bell peppers, shrimp, oysters, onions, and okra — all have an important place in gumbo. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_Grandmas_Gumbo_Deborah_Kadair

Sweet Potatoes:

Lessons and Activities

New Hampshire Harvest of the Month: Sweet Potatoes

Harvest lesson plans for K-4 classrooms that cover a variety of topics and include classroom connections.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.4 4.MD.1	K-LS-1-1 2-LS2-1 3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	W.K.1-3 L.[1-2].5 SL.[K-5].1-3 RL.[K-5].1-3 RI.[K-5].1-3

Sweet Potatoes:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Sweet Potatoes

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month was grown by our nation’s first president, George Washington. It’s a root but its leaves are also edible. Have you guessed it? It’s sweet potatoes! Now let’s learn a little bit more about the sweet potato, a vegetable with a history as colorful as its bright orange flesh.

P. Allen Smith – How to Harvest Sweet Potatoes

Harvesting and storing sweet potatoes. (3:15)

Harvesting Sweet Potatoes

Harvesting Japanese sweet potatoes in a small backyard plot. (4:04)

Making It Grow – Sweet Potato Harvesting

Sweet potatoes planting slips to harvesting on a large farm scale. (5:43)

Sweet Potatoes:

Books

Blue Potatoes, Orange Tomatoes by Rosalind Creasy (1994)

Young gardeners learn everything about growing fruits and vegetables in a host of unexpected colors, in a guide that includes simple planting tips, special recipes, and full-color illustrations for easy identification

The Gigantic Sweet Potato, by Dianne Casas (2010)

After weeks of hard work and tending to her garden, it was finally time for Ma Farmer to harvest her sweet potato and make some sweet potato pie; but when she tried to pull the tasty vegetable from the ground, it wouldn’t budge. With the help of her husband and some friendly farm animals, they finally pull a gigantic sweet potato from the ground and then all enjoy the sweet potato pie Ma Farmer prepares. This story teaches the importance of team work, patience, and eating healthy, local food!

I Yam a Donkey by Cece Bell (2015)

“I yam a donkey!” the donkey proclaims. Unfortunately the donkey’s audience happens to be a yam, and one who is particular about sloppy pronunciation and poor grammar. See the following for ideas that can be used with this book: https://www.floridamediaed.org/uploads/6/1/4/2/61420659/i_yam_a_donkey.pdf ALA Notable Children's Book Award 2016.

In the Garden with Dr. Carver by Susan Grigsby (2008)

Sally tells about a visit by Dr. George Washington Carver to her Alabama town and school. Dr. Carver teaches students about gardening, including the importance of respecting nature, and plant a school “kitchen” garden of their own. At the school picnic, they share Dr. Carver’s sweet-potato-flour bread. Historical-fiction.

Little Chef by Matt Stine & Elisabeth Weinberg (2018)

A little girl prepares to make her grandmother’s favorite meal, which includes “Grandma’s Super Special Smashed Sweet Potatoes.”

Sweet Potato Pie by Kathleen Lindsay (2008)

Selling sweet potato pies at the Harvest Festival will be what saves the family farm.

Tomatoes:

Lessons and Activities

National Ag in the Classroom: The Columbian Exchange of Old and New World Foods

Students will explore New World and Old World food origins to understand how the Columbian Exchange altered people’s lives worldwide. This is an activity focused on the origins of foods, including the tomato. After students learn about the origins of foods, they develop a research report on a chosen food. The Columbian Exchange of Old and New World Foods PDF Supplemental resource: The Food Timeline Ever wonder how the ancient Romans fed their armies? What the pioneers cooked along the Oregon Trail? Who invented the potato chip...and why? Most foods are not invented; they evolve. This is timeline of the appearance of different foods.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.3.4 SL.4.4 SL.5.4 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3	3.9.1 3.10.1 4.1.1,2,4 4.2.5 4.3.1 4.9.2 5.1.1,4 5.2.1 5.3.2 5.5.1,2 5.8.1 5.9.1

National Ag in the Classroom: Pizza Time

This lesson uses pizza as a basis for learning about agriculture, geography, and mathematics. Student activities include "Fabulous Fractions and Pizza Probability", "Pizza in Real Time", "Pizza Math", and "Cracker Pizzas".

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.NF.A.1 3.NF.A.3 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 5.NF.B.7		RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Reading Pictographs: Tomato Fest

Summer is here, and farmers are busy picking tomatoes! Kids practice reading a simple pictograph to help Mr. Farmer figure out how many tomatoes he picked during his harvest in this math worksheet. Kids get to practice reading and interpreting graphs and answering word problems. Remember: each tomato in the graph stands for 5 tomatoes picked!

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.3

Vermont Harvest of the Month: Tomato

Students will explore, taste, and learn about eating tomatoes. Activities include mapping the history of tomatoes, taste test heirloom tomatoes, and make a salsa recipe.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3RD GRADE 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,3 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 7-E-1.1,2 7-E-2.2

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Tomatoes

Activity plans for tomatoes include lessons centered around circle time, meal time, and activity time along with fast and fun activities. Each kit includes an activity plan, family recipe, teacher bites, and a parent newsletter and picture cards available in both English and Spanish. Tomato Activity Plan Tomato Family Recipe Tomato Parent Newsletter - English Tomato Parent Newsletter - Spanish Tomato Picture Cards - English Tomato Picture Cards - Spanish Tomato Teacher Bites

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		3RD GRADE 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,3 7-E-3.3 4TH GRADE 7-E-1.1,2 7-E-2.2

National Ag in the Classroom: A Seedy Fruit Challenge

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.G.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.3 4.MD.A.2 4.G.3	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3,4,7 RI.4.1,3,4,7 RI.5.1,2,3,4 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Edible Schoolyard: Seed Sleuth

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

National Ag in the Classroom: Plant and Animal Life Cycles

A series of lessons featuring life cycles of plants (apple, cotton, pea, pumpkin, tomato, and watermelon) and animals (chicken).

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3

Kids Gardening: Eat a Rainbow

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	4-LS1-1	RI.3.1,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,3 W.3.1, 4, 7,10 W.4.1, 4,7,10 SL.3.1,2,3,4 SL.4.1,2,3, 4 SL.5.1,2,3,4		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 2-E-2.2 2-E.3.2 7-E-1.1 7-E-2.1 7-E-3.1,2,3 4th grade 1-E-2.1,2,3,4 1-E-4.2 5-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-1.1,1.2 7-E-2.2 5th Grade 1-E-2.2 2-E-4.2 7-E-1.2 7-E-2.1

Tomatoes:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Tomatoes

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month was legally designated as a vegetable over a 100 years ago in the United States; although, it is botanically classified as a fruit. Now it is the third most popular vegetable in the United States. It’s tomatoes! No matter how you slice it, the tomato is a delicious treat and so much fun to grow!

True Food TV: How to Grow Tomatoes that Taste Amazing!

Pruning. Trellising. Sucker removal. Pest management... all the things you need to know to grow successful tomato plants. (9:31)

True Food TV: Heirloom Tomato | How Does It Grow?

Heirloom tomatoes are SCIENTIFICALLY sweeter than the round red ones that dominate our supermarkets. So why don't we see more heirlooms? Because they are insanely difficult to grow — and sell! Very informative video on how heirloom tomatoes are grown. (11:10)

True Food TV: Tomatoes | How Does It Grow?

Tomato farming is NOT what you think it is! Meet the farmers behind your pasta sauce, who grow and harvest plum-style processing tomatoes — the source of more vitamins than any other fruit or vegetable consumed in the U.S. The history of the tomato is interwoven into a virtual field trip to a commercial tomato farm. (11:02)

Super Sprowtz: A Tomato Force Field!

Tag along with celebrity guest and former White House Chef Sam Kass on a culinary adventure to Aztec, Mexico, where you'll learn about the superpowers inside every tomato. (6:50)

Super Sprowtz: What’s So Special About A Tomato?

Todd the Tomato wonders whether his super safe superpowers are just as incredible as the rest of the Sprowtz team. (5:44)

GroVeg: Ways of Ripening Green Tomatoes

Explains multiple ways of ripening green tomatoes. (3:32)

Time Lapse – Tomato Plant HD

Shows the sprouting of tomato seeds through day 22 (seedlings are about 6 inches tall). (1:13)

Center for Ecoliteracy: Nourishing Students: Posters

Display these posters in kitchens, cafeterias, classrooms, and during after-school programs as a fun and engaging way to promote fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy eating. This set of free, downloadable full-color posters features wildlife animals with the following fruit or vegetable: Radish, Strawberry, Grape, Tomato, Orange.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Tomato Brochure

Brochures containing facts and recipes. Scroll to the bottom of the page to download the flyer.

The Food Timeline

Ever wonder how the ancient Romans fed their armies? What the pioneers cooked along the Oregon Trail? Who invented the potato chip...and why? Most foods are not invented; they evolve.

Tomatoes:

Books

Blue Potatoes, Orange Tomatoes by Rosalind Creasy (1994)

A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds by Jean Richards (2006)

When Green Becomes Tomatoes: Poems for All Seasons by Julie Fogliano (2016)

A book of free verse poems that follow the seasons, beginning and ending in the spring. Reading level: 5-10 years.

book_cover_When_Green_Becomes_Tomatoes_Julia_foliano

Tomatoes Grow on a Vine by Mari Schuh (2011)

A book that explores the life cycle of the tomato. The book features labeled close-up photos. Ages: 4-8 years.

Life Cycles: Tomatoes by Robin Nelson (2009)

A close-up view of the life cycle of a tomato. Nonfiction. Ages: 5-8 years.

Big Red and the Terrible Tomato Hornworm by Cynthia Wylie (2018)

Big Red starts planting tomatoes and discovers that he’ll have to battle hornworms to keep his tomatoes healthy and safe. In the end, he has to use his newfound gardening knowledge and peacemaking skills to work with the hornworms and save his tomatoes. Ages: 4-8 years.

book_cover_Big_Red_and_the_Terrible_Tomato_Hornworm_Cynthia_Wylie

General Lessons & Activities:

Lessons and Activities

Florida Ag in the Classroom: Seed Surgeon

Compare and contrast the anatomy of different types of legume seeds. Students will use their powers of observations to identify the four main parts of a bean and then work collectively to determine the functions of those parts.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1

UGA: Pollen Relay Race

In this activity, students explore how a honeybee hive works through a role-play relay race.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS2-1

California Academy of Sciences: Flowers Seeking Pollinators

In this activity, students learn about plant reproduction and use real data to construct explanations about which flowers are the most attractive to different pollinators.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 MS-LS1-4	SL-K-1 SL-1-1 SL-2-1 SL-3-1 SL-4-1 SL-5-1 SL-6-1 SL-7-1 SL-8-1

LSU AgCenter: A Guide to Growing a School Butterfly Garden

Do you want to have butterflies in your classroom so your students can observe them on days even when you can’t go out to the garden? Here’s an easy and inexpensive way to make a butterfly house for your classroom. Once finished, place plants from your garden that have butterfly eggs or larvae on them into the butterfly house. Release the butterflies once they become adults.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1	S.K.1 S.1.1			VA-CE-E1 VA-CE-E5

FRESHFARM FoodPrints: Measuring in the Garden

The purpose of this lesson is for students to practice measuring skills in the garden. Students will estimate the length of the garden beds and use standard and non-standard units of measurement to compare the sizes of different garden beds. Students will then partition beds into square feet to prepare beds for spring planting.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
1.MD.A.2 1.G.A.3 2. OA.C.4 2.MD.A.1 2.MD.A.2 2.MD.D.3 2.G.A.2 3.MD.A.2 3.MD.B.4 3.MD.C.6 3.MD.C.7 3.G.A.2 4.MD.A.1 4.MD.A.3 5.MD.A.1		RI.1.1 RI.1.5 RI.1.7 RF.1.1 SL.1.1 SL.1.5 RI.2.5 RI.2.7 SL.2.1 RI.3.1 RI.3.7 SL.3.1 RI.4.1 RI.4.7 SL.4.1 RI.5.7 SL5.1 SL

FRESHFARM FoodPrints: Nutritious and Delicious

The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand the value of eating food that is both nutritious and delicious. Students will identify foods they consider to be nutritious and delicious and design a snack they would enjoy eating. They will also analyze the vitamins in a school lunch menu and search for the hidden sugars on nutrition labels.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		RI.3.5 SL.3.1 SL.4.1 SL.5.1		3rd Grade 1-E-2.1 1-E-2.2 1-E-2.4 2-E-1.2 2-E-2.2 2-E-5.2 2-E-5.3 4th grade 1-E-2.2 1-E-2.3 1-E-2.4 2-E-2.2 2-E-5.1 5-E-1.2 7-E-1.2 5th grade 1-E-1.1 2-E-4.2 5-E-1.2

Kids Gardening: Object-Based Storytelling in the Garden

Objects evoke memories, emotions, and ideas and can be used as inspiration to express our thoughts and feelings. In this lesson, young gardeners use objects they find in the garden or in a natural space to help them create a story that shares a lived experience. Consider having students create a gallery walk within the school that showcases the objects and the writing those objects helped to inspire!

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		W.3.3 W.3.4 W.3.8 SL.3.4 L.3.1 L.3.2 W.4.3 W.4.4 W.4.8 SL.4.4 L.4.1 L.4.2 W.5.3 W.5.4 W.5.8 SL.5.4 L.5.1 L.5.2

The Garden Classroom: Bug Census

In this activity, based upon the Bug Census activity outlined in The Garden Classroom, students survey specific areas in the school garden or other outdoor areas. Groups of students record and count the insect biodiversity in the area and then report their findings back to the class. The class is challenged to use their data to generate tally charts, bar graphs, and a food chain illustrating the relationships between the various insects observed in the garden. Student Page Data Charts

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B.3 5.G.A.2	3-LS2-1 3-LS3-2 3-LS4-4 4-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	SL.3.1 SL.3.4 SL.4.1 SL.4.4 SL.5.1 SL.5.4

Seeds to Success: Scribble Stones

Students plan, design, and contribute word rocks to the school rock garden. This very adaptable activity can be adjusted and used across all grade levels and subjects!

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
		L.K.1 L.K.2 L.1.1 L.1.2 L.2.1 L.2.2 L.3.1 L.3.2 L.4.1 L.4.2 L.5.1 L.5.2 L.6.1 L.6.2 L.7.1 L.7.2 L.8.1 L.8.2 L.9-10.1 L.9-10.2 L.11-12.1 L.11-12.2			VA-CE-E1 VA-CE-E2 VA-CE-E4 VA-CE-E6 VA-AP-E6 VA-CE-M2 VA-CE-M5 VA-CE-M6 VA-AP-M6 VA-CE-H2 VA-CE-H5 VA-CE-H6 VA-AP-H6

FoodMASTER: Measurement

Students will explore measurements and fractions by planning a potato plot. They will also observe how a potato grows and adjusts to its environment and record observations over a 4-week period.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
3.MD.B4 3.MD.C5 3.MD.D8 4.MD.A1 4.MD.A3 4.OA.A3 5.MD.A1	5-LS1-1	RI.3.1,2,3, RI.4.1,2,3 RI.5.2,3 WS.3.2,8 WS.4.2,4,8 WS.5.2,4, 8 SL.3.1,2,3,4,6 SL.4. 1,2,3,4 SL.5.1,2,3,4

NOAA: Coastal Activity Book

This activity book includes several coloring sheets and activities that deal with the unique animals that live in Louisiana’s marshes.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS2-1 3-LS1-1 4-LS1-1 5-PS3-1

Seeds to Success: Ripe for the Searching

Louisiana Harvest of the Month word search. Use the word bank to find the hidden names of the harvest of the month items. Words can be going horizontally, vertically or diagonally.

Weather STEM: Louisiana Climate

Weather STEM has a many electronic lessons connected to weather besides Louisiana Climate. This is a free resource during the COVID 19 pandemic.

North America Pollinator Protection Campaign (NAPPC): Nature’s Partners Pollinators, Plants, and You – A comprehensive Pollinator Curriculum for grades 3-6

This 126-page curriculum is designed to educate young people about 1) pollinators and the important role they play in providing many of the foods we eat and the plant fiber used in our clothing and household goods, and 2) ways they can help pollinators survive and flourish by protecting and creating pollinator friendly habitat.

Louisiana Harvest of Month Taste Test Guide

Students are often reluctant to try new foods. Taste tests introduce new menu items in a way that increases familiarity with healthy food choices, involves the school community, and builds a culture of trying new foods. This guide discusses benefits of taste tests and tips for running a successful taste test.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Compendium of Activities

This collection of lessons, books, and videos connected to Louisiana Student Standards was designed to teach your students about Harvest of the Month items.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Materials and Resources

Louisiana K-12 schools and after-school programs can register for Louisiana Harvest of the Month free-of-charge at any point during the school year. Registered sites will receive a packet of printed materials including posters, Louisiana-grown produce seasonality charts, and "I Tried It" stickers. Resources for each Harvest of the Month can be found at this site including: posters, recipes, and templates. Just click on the fruit or vegetable link.

Florida Ag in the Classroom Resources

This site gives you links for their three curricula: Gardening for Nutrition, Gardening for Grades, STEMming Up Gardening. You can download these full-color curricula and/or request hardcopies of these resources. These beautiful teacher guides will arrive at your door in a week totally free of charge. There are links for Make and Take Activities that are quick activities that would be excellent for STEM family nights. At this site you can also search for lessons with a keyword. Also, this site includes links for several Florida Ag in the Classroom Activity Newspapers where you can download and request class sets.

Garden-Based Learning Distance Teaching Resources

This is a growing collection of online resources including lessons, videos, read-alouds, and videos.

Farm Bureau: My American Farm

My American Farm is an educational game platform used to engage students in American agriculture. This free site offers agriculturally-themed games and more than 100 free educator resources such as ag lesson plans, activity sheets and comics. Students will discover the amazing world of agriculture as you build farm equipment, create your own avatar, travel the country, and help organize the barn - and that's just the beginning. You'll enjoy playing these games, which reinforce core academic learning standards. Many games are also available in app form. Including the My American Farm App, the My American Farm - All About Beef App - The Ag Across America App and The My American Farm STEM app. These are all free to download.

Kids Gardening: Simple Straw Aeration Hydroponics System

Kids are always amazed to see plants growing without soil. This simple kid-powered system gives them a chance to experiment and explore hydroponic basics.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS4-4 4-LS1-1 5-PS3-1 5-LS1-1 5-LS2-1	SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3

Florida Ag in the Classroom: A Rainbow of Nutrition

Pages 80-95. Students will research foods made from plant families (with support as needed), identify family members and common nutrients, and create artwork of one family group or a food made from that family. This lesson contains beautiful full-color student handouts of the plant families and the nutrition that they provide.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
	3-LS1-1 3-LS2-1 3-LS3-1,2 3-LS4-1,2	RI.3.1,2,3,7 RI.4.1,3,7 RI.5.1,2,3 SL.3.1,2,3 SL.4.1,2,3 SL.5.1,2,3		1-E-2.1,2,3,4 7-E-1.1,2,3 7-E-2.1,2 7-E-3.2,3

General Lessons & Activities:

Videos and Other Resources

KidsGardening: Pollinator Pals Activity Book

Meet a pollinator! Pollinators are animals that help many flowering plants produce their seeds. Their important work helps support the continued existence of millions of plant species, and in turn, most animal species, including humans. Download this FREE 39-page activity book now to explore twelve pollinators, including swallowtail butterflies, lesser long-nose bats, bumblebees, chocolate midges, mason bees, sphinx moths, yucca moths, flying fox bats, honeybees, hummingbirds, hoverflies, and monarch butterflies!

Youth Environmental Alliance, Cindy Davidson: Hydroponics in the Classroom Presentation for 2011 National Ag in the Classroom Conference

This presentation on Hydroponics in the Classroom includes:

Rationale,
History of Hydroponics,
Nutrient Basics,
PH Information,
Types of Systems,
Growing Media,
Lighting, and
Why We Teach Hydroponics.

USDA: Fruit and Vegetable Drawings

Beautiful full-color drawings of fruits and vegetables to display on a bulletin board or other places.

USDA: Fruit and Vegetable Blackline Masters

Blackline masters for students to color and display.

Pollination Partnership: Free Downloadable Signs:

12”x18” signs “Pollinator Garden” and “Pollinator Habitat” and a 14.35”x16” sign “WEEDS it’s the BEES KNEES!”

National Agricultural Literacy Outcomes

This free downloadable document outlines benchmarks related to agricultural literacy and academic achievement.

Lady Bird Wildflower Center: Exploring the Native Plant World – A Life Science Curriculum

In this 3-4 unit, students build on their knowledge of what plants must do to survive.

Kaiser Permanente: How to Make a Healthy Plate

A healthy plate is an easy way to control portion sizes. Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, one quarter with lean protein, and one quarter with whole grains for a healthy eating plan. (2:45)

General Lessons & Activities:

Books

This Year’s Garden by Cynthia Rylant (1987)

Follow the seasons of the year as reflected in the growth, life, and death of the garden of a large rural family. The annual gardening cycle is celebrated in a lovingly illustrated, full-color panorama of fertile scenes that you won't want to miss.

Kids Around the World Cook! By Arlette N. Braman (2000)

Make delicious foods and discover something about different cultures What do kids in Jamaica eat for breakfast? How can you make a delicious loaf of challah bread? Who created the first chocolate chip cookie? Let your curiosity--and appetite--run wild while you learn how to make scrumptious delicacies from cultures across the globe.

The Nitty-Gritty Gardening Book by Kari A. Cornell (2015)

Grow your own fruits, vegetables, and flowers! Become a gardener in any season with these fun and easy projects. Colorful photographs and simple step-by-step drawings make each project easy to follow for gardening success. Ready to get your hands dirty and your garden growing?

You Wouldn’t Want to Live Without Vegetables! By Alex Woolf (2016)

Vegetables provide us with essential vitamins and minerals that make our bodies healthier and stop us from getting sick. When someone mentions spinach, broccoli or kale, do you think YUCK? Why do we need these foods and what would the world be like without them? Learn how vegetables are grown and cultivated, and the often-inspired innovations made with such humble foodstuffs as the potato and the carrot.

Blue Potatoes, Orange Tomatoes by Rosalind Creasy (1994)

An introduction to organic gardening which explains how to grow a cornucopia of fruits and vegetables in unexpected colors, outlining simple guidelines for planning, planting, caring for, and troubleshooting a rainbow garden. Also includes some special recipes.

What Grew in Larry’s Garden by Laura Alary (2020)

A girl and her neighbor grow a community from their garden. Grace thinks Larry's garden is one of the wonders of the world. In his tiny backyard next door to hers, Larry grows the most extraordinary vegetables. Grace loves helping him --- watering and weeding, planting and pruning, hoeing and harvesting. And whenever there's a problem --- like bugs burrowing into the carrots or slugs chewing the lettuce --- Grace and Larry solve it together. Grace soon learns that Larry has big plans for the vegetables in his special garden. And when that garden faces its biggest problem yet, Grace follows Larry's example to find the perfect solution

Potatoes on Rooftops: Farming in the City by Hadley Dyer (2012)

From high school students to high-rise dwellers, people are discovering innovative ways to grow fresh, healthy, and delicious fruit and vegetables at home, in community gardens, and at school. This brisk, informative overview explains how farming in the city is not only fun, but also important for the planet.

The Garden Classroom: Hands-On Activities in Math, Science, Literacy, and Art by Cathy James (2015)

Packed with garden-based activities that promote science, math, reading, writing, imaginative play, and arts and crafts, The Garden Classroom offers a whole year of outdoor play and learning ideas—however big or small your garden.

Yucky Worms by Vivian French (2012)

Who would want to be friends with a wiggly, slimy worm? You can’t even tell which end is which! But there’s more to these lowly creatures than meets the eye. Kids are invited to find out where worms live, see how they move, and understand why gardeners consider them friends with the help of this humorous and informative look at an unappreciated — and fascinating — creature.

Alice Waters Cooks Up a Food Revolution by Diane Stanley (2022)

A delicious nonfiction picture book biography about pioneering chef Alice Waters who kickstarted the organic food movement.

The Little Gardener: Helping Children Connect with the Natural World by Julie Cerny (2020)

The Little Gardener is an engaging illustrated guide for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and educators who want to help children explore the natural world through gardening. Part how–to, part teaching tool, and part inspiration, The Little Gardener is a thoughtful combination of detailed instructions, tips, anecdotes, and seasonal activities designed to connect gardeners to natural systems.

First Garden: The White House Garden and How it Grew by Robin Gourley (2011)

This book tells the story of Mrs. Obama’s garden, as well as the story of the White House grounds, the other gardens (including Eleanor Roosevelt’s Victory Garden in World War II) that came before, the White House children who have played there, and the teamwork, involving local children as well as the Obama family and White House staff, that led to the garden now flourishing on the South Lawn.

City Green by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan (2019)

Right in the middle of Marcy’s city block is a vacant lot, littered and forlorn. Sometimes just looking at it makes Marcy feel sad. Then one spring, Marcy has a wonderful idea: Instead of a useless lot, why not a green and growing space for everyone to enjoy?

Beans, Greens, and Grades by D.S. Venetta (2016)

Lexi and Jason Williams take center stage at school when Principal Gordon enlists their help to establish a school garden at Beacon Academy. The kids are thrilled to be selected as Green Ambassadors for this important project, but quickly learn how challenging it can be to work with others toward a common goal

From Seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons (1991)

With simple language and bright illustrations, non-fiction master Gail Gibbons introduces young readers to the processes of pollination, seed formation, and germination. Important vocabulary is reinforced with accessible explanation and colorful, clear diagrams showing the parts of plants, the wide variety of seeds, and how they grow.

Down To Earth: How Kids Help Feed the World by Nikki Tate (2013)

From a balcony garden with pots of lettuce to a farm with hundreds of cows, kids can pitch in to bring the best and freshest products to their families' tables―and to market. Loaded with accessible information about the many facets of farming, Down to Earth takes a close look at everything from what an egg carton tells you to why genetic diversity matters―even to kids.

An Edible Alphabet: 26 Reasons to Love the Farm by Carol Watterson (2011)

Join this lively bunch on an alphabetical tour of today’s farm. With families and schools thinking more than ever about fresh, healthful choices for the table, kids want to know about the foods they see and eat every day: Where does it come from? How is it grown? What’s the difference between a fruit and a veggie? Why don’t chickens have teeth? This entertaining survey of modern farming provides a wealth of farm facts and farm lore, including

We Gather Together: Celebrating the Harvest Season by Wendy Pfeffer (2014)

Looking at both the science of weather and the history of how the fall equinox has been celebrated by various cultures throughout the world, this book will inspire a new understanding of autumn and the harvest season.

Strega Nona’s Harvest by Tomie dePaola (2012)

In this humorous tale, Strega Nona attempts to teach Big Anthony about gardening and the importance of order. But when Big Anthony does not follow her directions and tries to use her growing spell, his small vegetable patch turns into an unruly jungle! What will they do with all the extra vegetables?

Rah, Rah, Radishes!: A Vegetable Chant by April Pulley Sayre (2014)

Know anyone who doesn’t like veggies? Here is a book that's sure to change their hungry minds! With raucous, rhyming text, Rah, Rah, Radishes! celebrates fresh vegetables, nature’s bright colors, and the joy of healthy eating. The book’s interactive spirit encourages kids to join in on the read-aloud fun, and little ones won't be able to resist the book’s vibrant photographs—they’re a feast for the eyes!

Grow! Raise! Catch!: How We Get Our Food by Shelley Rotner (2017)

Farmers and fishermen show off their bounty in this celebration of agriculture and healthy eating! Bright, enticing photographs of plants, animals, and the people who work to raise them are paired with an accessible text explaining the different kinds of farms that produce our food. Fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, meat, eggs, and fish are represented, with notes on where and how they grow, and what we make from them. Grow! Raise! Catch! offers a breakdown of the farm-to-table process perfect for preschoolers and kindergarten students. Includes a glossary of important terms introduced in the text, and an author's note on how eating fresh foods helps you stay healthy.

Before We Eat: From Farm to Table by Pat Brisson (2014)

Before we eat, many people must work very hard―planting grain, catching fish, tending animals, and filling crates. In this book, vibrantly illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Mary Azarian, readers find out what must happen before food can get to our table to nourish our bodies and spirits.

Math in the garden: Hands-on Activities that Bring Math to Life (2006)

Thirty-six standards-based lessons on math in the garden for ages 5-13. Through experiential learning activities, this book fosters growth in elementary and middle school-aged children.

The Book of Gardening Projects for Kids: 101 Ways to Get Kids Outside, Dirty, and Having Fun (2012)

The book features simple, practical gardening advice, including how to design a play-friendly garden, ideas for fun-filled theme gardens, and how to cook and preserve the garden's bounty.

Keeping a Nature Journal (2003)

Keeping a Nature Journal is full of engaging exercises and stimulating prompts that will help you hone your powers of observation and appreciate new aspects of nature’s endlessly varied beauty.

Outdoor Science Lab (2016)

52 family-friendly physics, chemistry, and biology labs designed to get you outside.

Gardening Projects for Kids (2012)

Fantastic ideas for making things, growing plants and flowers, and attracting wildlife to the garden, with 60 practical projects and 500 photographs.

Square Foot Gardening with Kids (2014)

The easy geometry of the gridded box breaks the complex world of gardening into digestible bites for enthusiastic young learners, and the sequence of tasks required to grow plants from seeds is repeatable and reassuring.

Botany on Your Plate: Investigating the Plants We Eat (2008)

Watch children's understanding of our world grow as they partake in hands-on activities that explore edible roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds through observation, dissection, journaling, discussion of findings, and, of course, tasting!

The Garden Classroom: Hands-On Activities in Math, Science, Literacy, and Art (2015)

Packed with garden-based activities that promote science, math, reading, writing, imaginative play, and arts and crafts, The Garden Classroom offers a whole year of outdoor play and learning ideas—however big or small your garden.

Gardening Lab for Kids: 52 Fun Experiments to Learn, Grow, Harvest, Make, Play, and Enjoy Your Garden by Renata Fossen Brown(2014)

This fun and creative book features 52 plant-related activities set into weekly lessons, beginning with learning to read maps to find your heat zone, moving through seeds, soil, composting, and then creating garden art and appreciating your natural surroundings.

Worms Eat Our Garbage: Classroom Activities for a Better Environment (2003)

This book presents 150 worm-related classroom or home activities to help children in grades 4-8 develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Centered around a classroom worm bin, activities integrate science, mathematics, language arts, biology, solid waste issues, ecology, and the environment.

How to Grow a School Garden: A Complete Guide for Parents and Teachers (2010)

It's all here: developing the concept, planning, fund-raising, organizing, designing the space, preparing the site, working with parents and schools, teaching in the garden, planting, harvesting, and even cooking, with kid-friendly recipes and year-round activities.

Project Garden: A Month-by-Month Guide to Planting, Growing, and Enjoying ALL Your Backyard Has to Offer (2012)

Ideas to explore, innovate, and cultivate through simple projects that will get a garden growing at any time of year.

The Louisiana Urban Gardener: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Vegetables and Herbs (2017)

This book offers easy guidelines and useful tools to jump-start and maintain small yet bountiful gardens.