Lessons

The purpose of this lesson is for students to study the different ways plants reproduce. They will learn about plant propagation and how tubers and bulbs clone themselves. They will also dissect seeds, bulbs, and tubers to investigate what they have in common that allows them to reproduce, and practice using succulent leaves to start new succulent plants.

The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand how to navigate recipes in order to successfully prepare a dish. Students will examine a variety of recipe formats, identify common elements and choose one format to write their own Recipe of Me. They will also illustrate a favorite recipe and explore sensory language by describing items from the garden. This lesson supports the DCPS 4th grade ELA Unit My Story. ​

The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand the health benefits of eating whole grains. Students will learn about the three main parts of these edible seeds and the nutrients each contains. They will grind their own whole wheat and white flour, conduct an experiment on the digestion of whole and refined grains, observe sprouted grains, and create an educational poster to teach younger students about the benefits of eating whole grains.  ​
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The purpose of this lesson is for students to calculate area and perimeter to determine how much mulch needs to be purchased for the school garden paths. Students will measure the area of the entire school garden, as well as that of each raised garden bed. They will use that information to calculate the area of the garden that needs to be mulched. They will also examine angles in the garden and prepare seed tape to be planted in the spring.

The purpose of this lesson is for students to investigate what causes erosion and how it impacts our environment. Students will simulate different types of erosion, look for signs of erosion in their school garden, and consider ways to mitigate its damaging effects through plant growth and root systems. The lesson supports the DCPS 4th Grade ELA Unit Rocks and Minerals and the Science Unit Changes over Time to Earth’s Surface and Resources.

The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand how energy use impacts the planet. Students will learn the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy sources, study a local energy plan, and make personal goals for reducing their energy consumption.  They will also harness the energy from the sun to design and construct a solar oven.