My students need materials such as soil meters, planting kits and live species to help them understand the natural balance between soil, plants and animals.
Last year our schools first gardening group was started. Since then, the members explored for themselves the joy of cultivating the soil, working in community gardens and partaking in nature walks. They are hungry for more knowledge and greater results as we work on new outdoor projects this year.
The members of the gardening group are a diverse group of minority students of Hispanic and African descent.
They are a combination of twelve 8th and 7th graders who signed up to work in the school garden three times a week afterschool. Twice a month they attend trips outside the school community to various community organizations who have gardens, parks etc. I want my students to get as much outdoor exposure as possible so I have them work in the schools front lawn as well. Last year we cleared different areas of the lawn and planted various flowers. They are eager to learn more about planting and look forward to seeing results as what they plant begins to grow. In the classroom, the students have worked on science projects that test the various minerals of soil and soil enhancement methods. What they learn in gardening transfers back to their understanding on science, thus making them better students because they become more observant, good note takers and confident participants.
My Project
With the use of more resources, I will be able to work with students effectively in the classroom. Specially, during the harsh winter months when the outdoor activities will be limited. These materials on my list are essential to ensure that I can create an enjoyable curriculum that will continue to maintain a strong focus on soil quality, planting and plant formation. Every item will serve a purpose as I create lesson that will help students maintain a hands-on approach to learning. For example, I will be able to incorporate lessons from the Earthbox Elementary School Curriculum manual and the Watch it Grow Seed Kit. Students will be able to plant various samples of plants with the peat pots and water plant adapter exploration kit. They will be completely hooked when they find out that they will be maintaining a praying mantis nursery and have to care for earthworms in the classroom. Once spring hits, they will begin to test the soil in our yard by using the soil test kits and meters.
Gardening is an easy way to help middle school students find value in what they do.
They need to have a believe that what they do makes a difference and that they are part of the process. When I see my students get engaged and run towards a task without me having to insist or beg, I know that they are getting something out of it. They have a sense of ownership about their garden and look forward to doing more activities. With your support these students will continue value what they learn.
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