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Goal

Goal: Our goal is to expand the knowledge of the growing process for second graders through this project based activity. We will be using organic materials in order for students to foster a deeper appreciation for the environment and the need to be responsible for the Earth. Students will experience the life cycle for various plants. Last year while we were taking care of our garden, the lower grades passed by, we gave them a lesson in reproduction and the jobs of insects, as well as what the flower on plants turn in to. 

What will be done with my students

My students last year had a wonderful experience with the planning and planting of vegetables We ate numerous salads with our own vegetables. The students were in charge of the planting and the watering, which in turn taught them responsibility. They were engaged at all times of visitation to the garden, in fact it was asked everyday if they could visit. At the end of last year one of my students commented, "It was the best year ever, we got to plant, take care of, and eat our own vegetables." I use organic materials so that students understand that we must take care of the Earth. I will guide my students in the process of the planting. The students will study the properties of water, light, soil, and nutrition. Not only will this process meet the Science standards, but will integrate into Math with the measuring of water needed for the plants. Writing is met with the students writing in a journal about the changes that occur with their plants daily.  

Benefits to my students

First, the students will investigate a variety of plants and seeds in order to evaluate which would grow better for certain seasons in Florida. The students will experience the hands on project of planting their seeds in the Earth Boxes. Students will germinate some of their seeds before planting to visually understand the process.They will also study the properties of water, light, soil, and nutrition throughout the growing season. Students will gain knowledge in the life cycles of plants which is a second grade standard in Science. Another standard they will be able to recognize is the interaction and interdependence of plants and insects. They will also learn how to collect data and record their results in a journal. Students gain awareness of the nutritional value of the vegetables they grow. It is amazing the variety of vegetables the students will eat because they grew them their selves. 

Budget Narrative

I have done this garden for years now and some of my staking has worn out, so they need to be replaced. I have found a product that will hopefully stop the invasion of squirrels and other animals that like to eat our vegetables. I also need new students gloves because of wear and tear. Our bench broke last year and the students really enjoyed sitting on it to watch the workers water, prune and pick. We rotate jobs because of the amount of students.
Thank you! 

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