Creating Environmentally Conscious Students: Integrating Garden-Based Learning into the Family/Consumer Science 7th Grade Curriculum

Bedford, Sydney

Creating Environmentally Conscious Students: Integrating Garden-Based Learning into the Family/Consumer Science 7th Grade Curriculum

Persistent URL

http://hdl.handle.net/10456/37998

Author(s)

Bedford, Sydney

Date Issued

April 10, 2015

Abstract

Garden-based learning is a popular strategy to engage primary students in ecological processes. This educational approach enhances student learning while also teaching students to be responsible problem-solvers who are connected with their community. These skills are necessary for creating environmentally-conscious students who can address complex environmental issues. Meadville PA is a community with a high percentage of families living below the federal poverty level. Local school health screens in Meadville reveal that ~38% of children aged 5-17 are obese or overweight. Garden-based education can address the linked challenges of obesity and poverty. Students can learn valuable skills about environmental stewardship, and also about nutrition and healthy eating. This project is part of a Community Wellness Initiative showcasing a new community garden at a recreational complex adjacent to the middle school. I designed and tested six lesson plans addressing the ecology, nutrition, and sustainability of growing foods locally and the practical benefits of doing so. Lessons integrate garden-based learning into the “Family/Consumer Science” class in the 7th grade curriculum and are linked to statewide goals and standards for science and agriculture. Lessons focused on where food comes from, what is in our food, buying local, budgeting meals, food spoilage, and harvesting.

Major

Environmental Studies

First Reader(s)

Waggett, Caryl E.