United StatesClass Garden
Grade Levels: K - 3
Objectives
- The students will create a class garden and observe the growth of the plants.
Materials
- Garden spot
- Child-sized garden tools
- Seeds
- Watering cans or spray bottles
Procedures
- Select a spot for the garden, then help the students till it. (Use landscape timbers or rocks to outline the area.)
- Let the children decide which vegetables they would like to grow, then purchase the seeds.
- Read the directions on the seed packets and make a diagram of the garden to outline where to plant different seeds.
- Several days before planting, encourage the children to dig in the dirt with their tools and shovels.
- Let the children make the rows, plant the seeds, and water their garden. (Label each row.)
- Have the children care for their plants by pulling weeds and watering them throughout the year.
- Encourage students to "harvest" their vegetables and prepare them for snack or lunch.
- Make a scarecrow for your garden. Stuff an old hose with leaves and straw for the arms and legs, then dress it in old clothes. Make a head from a grocery sack and stick on a funny hat.
Excerpted from Science Surprises!
