Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom Other Categories Introductory Lessons Ag Products American History Biosecurity Biotechnology Cooking and Eating Cowboys and the West Cultural Diversity Earth Day Economics Food and Nutrition Insects Oklahoma History Plant Science Pumpkins and Other Lessons for Fall Soil Science Take It Outside Weather World History In order to download these lessons, you will need to use Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have a copy of Acrobat reader, click here. Introductory Lessons Agriculture Counts Students explore the every day uses of agricultural commodities grown in Oklahoma. Agriculture: It's More Than You Think The student will become familiar with several agricultural careers while practicing the use of suffixes. A Day Without Ag What is agriculture, and how does it impact my life every day? top Ag Products Ag in the Outfield The student will learn about the many agricultural products used in a baseball game. Ag in the Playing Fields The many ways agriculture is necessary for all your students' favorite sports. More facts about agriculture in sports. Agriculture Counts The student will explore commodities grown in Oklahoma and the products made from them. Agriculture—It Doesn't Just Happen: The Work of the Ag Research Service Students use research skills to find information about agriculture research projects and use gathered information in a variety of presentations. Biomass: The Energy of the Future Students will use research skills to gather information on renewable fuels. Students will compile information on a graph and compare and contrast the pros and cons for developing the fuels for use. Chewed Paper and Sticky Stuff Students make adhesives from some common food substances and use flour paste to make pinatas and other crafts from papier mache. Clothesline Sleuth Students trace the origins of various clothing items to their agricultural sources. Corn Cob Toys Students will make toys from corn cobs and learn of the many uses for corn, both historically and today. A Day Without Ag What is agriculture, and how does it impact my life every day? Fleece as White as Snow The students will become familiar with vocabulary words pertaining to the production of sheep. From Bolls to Bolts Students read statements about cotton manufacturing and place them in chronological order. The History of Ethanol in America Students will explore the production of biofuels from the 1850s to the present. Hogs On A Diet Students identify an assortment of feed grains and learn the importance of eating a variety of foods, both for themselves and for farm animals. Made From Animals Students match animals with the products they produce. Making Paper Students make paper from recycled paper. Oklahoma Grown The student will learn which Oklahoma crops grow in which counties. The Peanut Wizard The student will read information about George Washington Carver and outline the information. The Story of Milk Student learn where milk comes from and place the steps in sequence. Truth or Hogwash? Students will work in teams to play a game in which they answer true/false questions about swine and then research and develop questions of their own. Will Your Car Run on Grass? How Biomass Becomes Alcohol Students conduct experiments with yeast to determine what substances promote fermentation. top American History The Art of Growing Things Learn the history of seed packets, then research a plant and create your own packet. USDA Hardiness Zones Map At Home on the Range How ranchers on the western frontier helped saved the bison from extinction. Back to the Farm Students trace family history to find family members with farming or ranching backgrounds. Be a Food Explorer Students will try a variety of unfamiliar fruits and vegetables, research their origins and develop recipes. Bill Pickett, Bull Doggin' Cowboy Students will be introduced to Pill Pickett, An Oklahoma rodeo personality, who pioneered the rodeo act of bulldogging. Busting the Prairie: Planning a Homestead Community Students learn about the Homestead Act of 1862 and the importance of agriculture in the settling of the West by planning and designing homestead communities and designing handbills inviting others to join them. Come Into My Parlor Students interpret a map scale to measure the space in a milking parlor. Corn Cob Toys Students will make toys from corn cobs and learnof the many uses for corn, both historically and today. Cotton Pickin': Before and After the Civil War Students examine the importance of cotton to the economy of the South before and after the Civil War. Covered in Quilts The student will create a quilt block, using several colors and an assortment of geometric shapes. Dark Days on the Prairie Students write descriptive paragraphs based on pictures from the Dust Bowl, label a map showing the Oklahoma counties and surrounding states affected by the Dust Bowl, and research climatic conditions of the area. More on the Dust Bowl Dear George: Using Census Data to Report on Agriculture Students use Census of Agriculture information to compose a letter about agriculture in the US and translate correspondence about agriculture from George Washington into modern language. Don't Fence Me In Students learn the history of barbed wire and its impact on the development of the west and practice identifying geometric terms using examples of some common styles of barbed wire. Food for Keeps Students explore food preservation methods and make beef jerky. Garden Guard Students will work in small groups or individually to create scarecrows, write brief descriptions about them and display them in a class scarecrow show. George Washington and the First Census of Agriculture Students will read excerpts from a letter George Washington wrote about agriculture in the US in 1771 and compare his evaluation with agricultural data over time. Get the Point Students read about cattle drives and measure the width of the horns on drawings of longhorn cattle, then convert the measurements from inches to centimeters and from inches to feet. Goodness, Grady! Students read the true story of Grady, the famous silo cow from Yukon, Oklahoma, and present a play based on the story. Head, Heart, Hands, Health Students learn the history of 4-H, one of the oldest youth organizations, and use the information to compare and contrast other historical events. The History of Ethanol in America Students will explore the production of biofuels from the 1850s to the present. Hit the Trail Student draw three cattle trails that passed through Indian Territory, using a written description of the trails. Extreme History: Wild West Cattle Drive (History Channel video, with Roger Daltrey) Hoboes on Harvest Students read about the role Oklahoma’s wheat fields played in the history of labor movements in the US. A Hundred Bales of Hay Students practice patterns on a hundreds chart while learning about hay production, past and present. An International Menu Students use dictionaries to research etymologies and explore the diverse origins of common foods we eat. Just Lookin' for a Home Students will learn a song about the boll weevil and use it to understand the impact agriculture has on a community and its economy. Make Mine Turkey Students learn to interpret data in grocery advertisements and compute costs by creating a menu and computing the cost of a turkey dinner. Mr. Goldman's Good Idea Students read about the invention of the shopping cart and identify major elements of the story’s structure. Next Year's Seeds The student will play a game demonstrating variables that affect the food supply. Oklahoma Groundbreakers Short bios of some groundbreakers in the history of Oklahoma agriculture, with activites. The Peanut Wizard The student will read information about George Washington Carver and outline the information. Piece by Piece The student will use geometric shapes made from construction paper to create an original quilt block, then write a brief history of the creation. Plows on the Hunting Grounds: The Indian Allotment Act of 1887 Students read about the Indian Allotment Act of 1887 and discuss its impact on Oklahoma's Native American tribes and agriculture. Pop Around the World Students will learn about the origin of popcorn and locate countries where it is grown on a world map. Surveying: 19 Chains and 50 Links Students use geometric skills to practice the art of surveying. Territorial Children Students explore the geography of Indian Territory, learn about the lives of children in during that time period, make butter, make a rag doll and play historical games played by pioneer children and America Indian children. Time Line of the Land Students construct time lines, using historical facts about the development of agriculture. Writing the Wind Students build a model of a windmill and compose sentences or phrases, using adjectives to describe the windmill. top Biosecurity Safe Food Handling Cultivating Oklahoma's Future Grades 7-8, Grade 6, Grades 3-5, Grades PreK-2 Students read and discuss information and vocabulary about some new developments in agriculture and the future of agriculture in Oklahoma. Biosecurity Keeps Everyone Safe Students will discern between valid and invalid resources and write an informative research paper. Grades 6-8: LA How Germs Spread Students conduct a test to help them visualize the spread of germs. Plotting the Plight of the Cattle Students graph cases of a livestock disease in several countries. Preventing Disease in Meat Animals Students research animal diseases and examine why they should matter to us. Biotechnology Facts About Biotechnology Agriculture—It Doesn't Just Happen: The Work of the Ag Research Service Students use research skills to find information about agriculture research projects and use gathered information in a variety of presentations. Agriculture: It's More Than You Think The student will become familiar with several agricultural careers while practicing the use of suffixes. The Art of Growing Things Learn the history of seed packets, then research a plant and create your own packet. USDA Hardiness Zones Map Be a Bug Scout Students count insects or specified weeds in a given area to experience how farmers decide whether or not to use pesticides. Beef is Good for You Students chart nutritional information about beef. Beef or Dairy? Students learn to distinguish between beef and dairy cows by identifying their basic body shapes. Cultivating Oklahoma's Future Grades 7-8, Grade 6, Grades 3-5, Grades PreK-2 Students read and discuss information and vocabulary about some new developments in agriculture and the future of agriculture in Oklahoma. DNA Blueprint for Life Students isolate DNA in a solution made from fruit pulp. The Fable of Franny and Her Fabulous Fainting Goat Students get practice telling time while reading about a goat with an unusual trait. Genetics: A List of Traits (formerly "Hairy Heredity") Students will learn how cattle pass genetic traits onto their offspring through heredity. Students will learn the difference between dominant and recessive genes, and how they interact. Good Breeding Students learn about common Oklahoma cattle breeds. Hairy Heredity (now called "Genetics: A List of Traits") Students will learn how cattle pass genetic traits onto their offspring through heredity. Students will learn the difference between dominant and recessive genes, and how they interact. Hogs On A Diet Students identify an assortment of feed grains and learn the importance of eating a variety of foods, both for themselves and for farm animals. Melon Meiosis Students will learn how seedless watermelon were developed and model the process of mitosis and meiosis in watermelons, using jelly beans. Next Year's Seeds The student will play a game demonstrating variables that affect the food supply. A Priceless Collection The student will read a story about the life of Russian plant breeder Nikolai I. Vavilov and the national seed bank he established. Street Cows Students will learn that cows come in many different shapes and sizes and will design their own art cows after reading a story about a popular travelling art exhibit. Taming the Wild Aurochs Students read about the development of animal husbandry, outline the information and arrange steps in sequence. This Little Pig Student hear basic information about swine and write and identify vocabulary words relating to the subject. Time Line of the Land Students construct time lines, using historical facts about the development of agriculture. Truth or Hogwash? Students will work in teams to play a game in which they answer true/false questions about swine and then research and develop questions of their own. Weeds on the Windowsill An examination of the need for pesticides. Students compare the results when they grow plants in two kinds of garden soil, one of which has been treated (by boiling water) to kill weed seeds and one which has not. Will Your Car Run on Grass? How Biomass Becomes Alcohol Students conduct experiments with yeast to determine what substances promote fermentation. top Cooking and Eating Breakfast Facts and Ideas Cookbooks for Children and Young Adults Kitchen Rules Recipes Safe Food Handling Bread in a Bag Students learn about the origins of bread and make bread in a bag. Food for Keeps Student explore food preservation methodsand make beef jerky. Hot Off the Grill Students measure temperatures of hamburger patties both before and after cooking. Oklahoma Stone Soup An Oklahoma version of the old story, providing vegetable choices for students. Say Cheese Students make cheese. Yam and Eggs Students learn where their food dollars go while getting practice recognizing coins and making change. Tortillas in a Bag Students follow instructions to make tortillas in a bag and learn about breads around the world. top Cowboys and the West At Home on the Range How ranchers on the western frontier helped saved the bison from extinction. Bill Pickett, Bull Doggin' Cowboy Students will be introduced to Pill Pickett, An Oklahoma rodeo personality, who pioneered the rodeo act of bulldogging. Don't Fence Me In Students learn the history of barbed wire and its impact on the development of the west and practice identifying geometric terms using examples of some common styles of barbed wire. The Farmer And The Cowman Students make booklets showing the difference between a ranch and a farm. Get the Point Students read about cattle drives and measure the width of the horns on drawings of longhorn cattle, then convert the measurements from inches to centimeters and from inches to feet. A Handy Measure Students are introduced to the method used for measuring horses. Hit the Trail Student draw three cattle trails that passed through Indian Territory, using a written description of the trails. Oklahoma Groundbreakers Short bios of some groundbreakers in the history of Oklahoma agriculture, with activites. Plows on the Hunting Grounds: The Indian Allotment Act of 1887 Students read about the Indian Allotment Act of 1887 and discuss its impact on Oklahoma's Native American tribes and agriculture. Stick Horse Rodeo Students will learn about the rodeo and hold their own rodeos with age-appropriate activities like "Pig Herding" ( herding balloons or balls), barrel racing with a stick horse, "Wild Cow Milking," "Scatter Square Dancing," etc. What's Your Brand? Student learn the history and purpose of branding cattle. top Cultural Diversity At Home on the Range How ranchers on the western frontier helped saved the bison from extinction. Bill Pickett, Bull Doggin' Cowboy Students will be introduced to Pill Pickett, An Oklahoma rodeo personality, who pioneered the rodeo act of bulldogging. Chewed Paper and Sticky Stuff Students make adhesives from some common food substances and use flour paste to make pinatas and other crafts from papier mache. Cotton Pickin': Before and After the Civil War Students examine the importance of cotton to the economy of the South before and after the Civil War. An International Menu Students use dictionaries to research etymologies and explore the diverse origins of common foods we eat. Oklahoma Groundbreakers Short bios of some groundbreakers in the history of Oklahoma agriculture, with activites. The Peanut Wizard The student will read information about George Washington Carver and outline the information. Plows on the Hunting Grounds: The Indian Allotment Act of 1887 Students read about the Indian Allotment Act of 1887 and discuss its impact on Oklahoma's Native American tribes and agriculture. Street Cows Students will learn that cows come in many different shapes and sizes and will design their own art cows after reading a story about a popular travelling art exhibit. Yam and Eggs Encourage your students to try something different as they learn what people eat for breakfast around the world. Tortillas in a Bag Students follow instructions to make tortillas in a bag and learn about breads around the world. top Earth Day Newspaper Planting Pot Oklahoma Rainfall Chart The Green Grass Grew All Around (song lyrics) Are You Thirsty? The Effects of Pollution on Drinking Water Various activities for helping students visualize the effects of pollution on drinking water. The Art of Growing Things Learn the history of seed packets, then research a plant and create your own packet. USDA Hardiness Zones Map Be a Bug Scout Students count insects or specified weeds in a given area to experience how farmers decide whether or not to use pesticides. A Bean is a Seed Students will learn about germination by sprouting beans and caring for them in small necklaces which they keep around their necks. Bee Dance The student will construct bee puppets and use them to act out some bee behaviors. Biomass: The Energy of the Future Students will use research skills to gather information on renewable fuels. Students will compile information on a graph and compare and contrast the pros and cons for developing the fuels for use. Bubbles in the Cabbage Juice Students conduct experiments to discover carbon dioxide. Bug's Eye View Students construct an insect holder and observe and classify insects. Catch as Catch Can The student will construct an insect catch net and capture insects for observation. Chewed Paper and Sticky Stuff Students make adhesives from some common food substances and use flour paste to make pinatas and other crafts from papier mache. Circles Students will make bracelets representing life cycles. Creepy Crawly Critters Students will learn characteristics of insects by creating models from an assortment of materials. Dark Days on the Prairie Students write descriptive paragraphs based on pictures from the Dust Bowl, label a map showing the Oklahoma counties and surrounding states affected by the Dust Bowl, and research climatic conditions of the area. More on the Dust Bowl Dirt Babies Students will observe grass sprouting and growing like hair on heads they create from knee-high nylon stockings and potting medium. Dirty Pictures Student compose pictures using the many different colors of Oklahoma soil. Painting With Soil (NRCS lesson) The Disappearing Honeybees: Tracking Honeybee Decline Students use graphing and other math skills to track the number of honeybee colonies present in the US since 1978. Fantastic Flower Students learn the anatomy of a flower and play a game in which they act out the pollination process. The Farmer Cares for the Land The student will identify cause and effect relationships in issues relating to agriculture and the environment. Fish In A Bottle Students build fish ecosystems, then observe and write about changes they observe. Fresh From the Farm Student learn about farmer’s markets and complete a survey to learn what kinds of produce is grown by local farmers and gardeners. Garden Grid Students create a grid and plan a garden, allowing sufficient space for each plant to grow. Garden Guard Students will work in small groups or individually to create scarecrows, write brief descriptions about them and display them in a class scarecrow show. Germination Observations The students germinate seeds under a variety of conditions. A Growing Market The student will research and grow a plant and present findings orally. The History of Ethanol in America Students will explore the production of biofuels from the 1850s to the present. If Not for the Pollinators: Matching Flowers with Pollinators Students match flowers to pollinators and construct models of flowers to demonstrate why different kinds of flowers need different kinds of pollinators Just Lookin' for a Home Students will learn a song about the boll weevil and use it to understand the impact agriculture has on a community and its economy. Let It Rain Demonstrations showing students the effects of water erosion on soil. Look Out, Below! Student learn the four layers of soil and identify the substances that make up each level. A Lovely Captive Students will construct a habitat which will allow them to observe the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Making Paper Students make paper from recycled paper. Manure Happens: Nutrients in Livestock Manure Students reinforce science and math skills while learning about the nutrients found in livestock manure. Measuring Exponential Growth Students reinforce math skills while learning about best practices for use of animal manure nutrients and protection of water quality. Mighty Earth Movers Students build a habitat for worms and record observations. Mighty Oaks From Little Acorns Students make the connection between seeds and trees by gathering and planting acorns. Mud in the Water The student will build a soil erosion model and learn the importance of soil conservation. Paper or Plastic? Exploring Rewewable Resources Students discuss, develop, invent and implement a plan for making informed personal economic decisions about renewable resources. Particulate Matter in the Air Students gather particles that settle from the air in different settings. Playing in the Dirt: Discovering Soil Students will use their science process skills to discover the percentage of sand, silt, loam or clay in soil samples. Pollinator Habitats Students research, interview experts and design pollinator habitats Preparing for Drought Students form subcommittees to propose plans for drought management and relief. The Role of Fire in Healthy Prairie, Brush and Forest Land The importance of fire to maintaining the health of prairie, brush and forest lands. Save Our Soil The student will view a demonstration which will help them understand what a small amount of land is used to sustain humans on the earth. Soak It Up Student do an experiment with different kinds of soil to observe how well each holds water and how organic matter increases the amount of water soil will hold. Sock Walk Students take a walk wearing socks over their shoes to learn how some seeds travel. Sunny Sunflowers Students create models of sunflowers and play a game to demonstrate how plants grow in relation to light. Symbiosis in Agriculture Students compare insect relationships according to their symbiosis class—parasitism, commensalism, mutualism. Weeds on the Windowsill An examination of the need for pesticides. Students compare the results when they grow plants in two kinds of garden soil, one of which has been treated (by boiling water) to kill weed seeds and one which has not. What is Drought? Students conduct an experiment to explore the effects of drought. What's Organic? Student will examine the different meanings of the word "organic." Where Has All the Farmland Gone? Students look at issues related to land use worldwide Will Your Car Run on Grass? How Biomass Becomes Alcohol Students conduct experiments with yeast to determine what substances promote fermentation. top Economics Ag in My Community Students learn about agriculture in their own community and across the state. Agriculture Counts (Essay) The student will write an essay on the subject "Agriculture Counts." Agriculture Counts (Poster) The student will write and illustrate a story describing all the agricultural products he or she uses in a typical morning. At Your Fingertips On a world map, students will locate countries from which we import foods that climatic conditions prevent us from growing locally. By the Pound The student will estimate the weight and cost of produce and calculate the actual price. Corn Cob Toys Students will make toys from corn cobs and learn of the many uses for corn, both historically and today. Cotton Pickin': Before and After the Civil War Students examine the importance of cotton to the economy of the South before and after the Civil War. Cultivating Oklahoma's Future Grades 7-8, Grade 6, Grades 3-5, Grades PreK-2 Students read and discuss information and vocabulary about some new developments in agriculture and the future of agriculture in Oklahoma. How Far Did It Travel? Exploring the Geography of Food Students compare the distances food travels from farm to table. How to Pick the Best Students learn what to look for when selecting fresh fruits and vegetables. A Hundred Bales of Hay Students practice patterns on a hundreds chart while learning about hay production, past and present. In Strawberry Fields Students learn about strawberry production and compute wages of strawberry workers. Little Red Hen Students “The Little Red Hen,” discuss careers involved in providing our food and act out a play based on the story Mr. Goldman's Good Idea Students read about the invention of the shopping cart and identify major elements of the story’s structure. Oklahoma Groundbreakers Short bios of some groundbreakers in the history of Oklahoma agriculture, with activites. Oklahoma Wheat on the World Market Students compute profit and loss in a wheat trading market a graph market activity. The Story of Milk Student learn where milk comes from and place the steps in sequence. US Agriculture and the World Market Students interpret agricultural import and export data in tabular form, determine percentages, convert values between measurement systems and graph information from tables. Where Has All the Farmland Gone? Students look at issues related to land use worldwide World Trade Students use research skills to learn about world trade and the organizations which govern trade. Your Food Dollar (and Cents) Students learn where their food dollars go while getting practice recognizing coins and making change. top Food and Nutrition Nutrition Facts (Breakfast) Food and Fun (recipes and games) USDA Food Guide Pyramid Be a Food Explorer Students will try a variety of unfamiliar fruits and vegetables, research their origins and develop recipes. Beef is Good for You Students chart nutritional information about beef. Bread in a Bag Students learn about the origins of bread and make bread in a bag. Build a Burger Students explore the components of a hamburger and build models of their own to create a balanced, nutritious meals. Cultivating Oklahoma's Future Grades 7-8, Grade 6, Grades 3-5, Grades PreK-2 Students read and discuss information and vocabulary about some new developments in agriculture and the future of agriculture in Oklahoma. Fields of Beans All about legumes Fit With Fiber: Graphing Cereal Students gather and graph information about favorite breakfast cereals. Food for Keeps Student explore food preservation methods and make beef jerky. Fresh From the Farm Student learn about farmer’s markets and complete a survey to learn what kinds of produce is grown by local farmers and gardeners. Fruit or Vegetable? Students explore the differences between fruits and vegetables from different perspectives and develop their own definitions. Hogs On A Diet Students identify an assortment of feed grains and learn the importance of eating a variety of foods, both for themselves and for farm animals. Hot Off the Grill Students measure temperatures of hamburger patties both before and after cooking. How to Pick the Best Students learn what to look for when selecting fresh fruits and vegetables. The Humble Beginnings of the Hamburger Student hear some claims regarding the hamburger’s origins and then compose an original tall tale on the subject. An International Menu Students use dictionaries to research etymologies and explore the diverse origins of common foods we eat. Magnificent Melons All about Oklahoma melons, with activities. Make Mine Turkey Students learn to interpret data in grocery advertisements and compute costs by creating a menu and computing the cost of a turkey dinner. A Mixed Bag Students construct a "feed bag" representing the components included in a horse's feed and learn that, like humans, animals need a variety of foods for good nutrition. Oklahoma's Berry Best All about berries Oklahoma's Roots and Leafy Greens All about root vegetables and leafy greens. Oklahoma Stone Soup An Oklahoma version of the old story, providing vegetable choices for students. Organic or Conventional: Fact, Opinion, Propaganda Students examine the differences between organic and conventional farming and learn to identify fact, opinion and various propaganda techniques. Pecan Fingerprints Students learn about themselves as individuals and understand that things in nature also have traits that distinguish them from all others. Pumpkins, Squash and Other Cucurbits A Purple Cow Students learn to identify colors in nature and to observe objects under varying light conditions. Rooftop Sandwich Students create books showing the main ingredients of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Say Cheese Students make cheese. Snack Sack Students experience the concepts of ratio and production, using agricultural products that can be considered snack foods. Students analyze and record information from the class experience. The Story of Milk Student learn where milk comes from and place the steps in sequence. To-may-to, To-mah-to; Po-tay-to, Po-tah-to All about vegetables in the nightshade family. These Roots Run Deep All about root vegetables and leafy greens. They Don't Just Eat Grass Students compare and contrast different energy values of feeds by graphing the net energy for maintenance and percentage of fat for a variety of feed types and compare animal feed with human food by creating a balanced human feed ration, based on the USDA Food Guide Pyramid Tortillas in a Bag Students follow instructions to make tortillas in a bag and learn about breads around the world. Yam and Eggs Encourage students to try something different as they learn what people eat for breakfast around the world. top Insects Instructions for Care of Madagascar Hissing Cockroach (OSU Fact Sheet) Be a Bug Scout Students count insects or specified weeds in a given area to experience how farmers decide whether or not to use pesticides. Bee Dance The student will construct bee puppets and use them to act out some bee behaviors. Bee Smart. Bee Happy Students learn basic information about bees and the importance of pollination in crop production. Includes a take home Parent Page with information about the Africanized honey bee (sometimes erroneously called "killer bees.") Bug's Eye View The student construct an insect holder and observe and classify insects. Catch as Catch Can The student will construct an insect catch net and capture insects for observation. Creepy Crawly Critters Students will learn characteristics of insects by creating models from an assortment of materials. Crickets on the Hearth Students design and conduct investigations with crickets. The Disappearing Honeybees: Tracking Honeybee Decline Students use graphing and other math skills to track the number of honeybee colonies present in the US since 1978. Fantastic Flower Students learn the anatomy of a flower and play a game in which they act out the pollination process. If Not for the Pollinators: Matching Flowers with Pollinators Students match flowers to pollinators and construct models of flowers to demonstrate why different kinds of flowers need different kinds of pollinators Just Lookin' for a Home Students will learn a song about the boll weevil and use it to understand the impact agriculture has on a community and its economy. A Lovely Captive Students will construct a habitat which will allow them to observe the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Pollinator Habitats Students research, interview experts and design pollinator habitats Symbiosis in Agriculture Students compare insect relationships according to their symbiosis class—parasitism, commensalism, mutualism. top Oklahoma History Agriculture: Oklahoma's Legacy Students trace the history of agriculture in Oklahoma. PreK - 2 Grades 3-5 Grade 6 At Home on the Range How ranchers on the western frontier helped saved the bison from extinction. Back to the Farm Students trace family history to find family members with farming or ranching backgrounds. Bill Pickett, Bull Doggin' Cowboy Students will be introduced to Pill Pickett, An Oklahoma rodeo personality, who pioneered the rodeo act of bulldogging. Bovine Oversteps Boundaries Students will read the true story of Grady, the Silo Cow from Yukon, and write headlines for the story. Busting the Prairie: Planning a Homestead Community Students learn about the Homestead Act of 1862 and the importance of agriculture in the settling of the West by planning and designing homestead communities and designing handbills inviting others to join them. Corn Cob Toys Students will make toys from corn cobs and learn of the many uses for corn, both historically and today. Dark Days on the Prairie Students write descriptive paragraphs based on pictures from the Dust Bowl, label a map showing the Oklahoma counties and surrounding states affected by the Dust Bowl, and research climatic conditions of the area. NEH Dust Bowl Site Goodness, Grady! Students read the true story of Grady, the famous silo cow from Yukon, Oklahoma, and present a play based on the story. A Handy Measure Students are introduced to the method used for measuring horses. Head, Heart, Hands, Health Students learn the history of 4-H, one of the oldest youth organizations, and use the information to compare and contrast other historical events. Hit the Trail Student draw three cattle trails that passed through Indian Territory, using a written description of the trails. Hoboes on Harvest Students read about the role Oklahoma’s wheat fields played in the history of labor movements in the US. The Humble Beginnings of the Hamburger Student hear some claims regarding the hamburger’s origins and then compose an original tall tale on the subject. A Hundred Bales of Hay Students practice patterns on a hundreds chart while learning about hay production, past and present. Mr. Goldman's Good Idea Students read about the invention of the shopping cart and identify major elements of the story’s structure. Oklahoma Groundbreakers Short bios of some groundbreakers in the history of Oklahoma agriculture, with activites. Plows on the Hunting Grounds: The Indian Allotment Act of 1887 Students read about the Indian Allotment Act of 1887 and discuss its impact on Oklahoma's Native American tribes and agriculture. Surveying: 19 Chains and 50 Links Students use geometric skills to practice the art of surveying. Territorial Children Students explore the geography of Indian Territory, learn about the lives of children in during that time period, make butter, make a rag doll and play historical games played by pioneer children and America Indian children. top Plant Science Curtis' Botanical Magazine (botanical prints from the National Agriculture library) Oklahoma Groundbreakers: Read about Oklahoma's own Joseph Danne, the inventor of the first wheat variety developed in and for Oklahoma. Poems and Songs About Growing Things USDA Hardiness Zones Map USDA Pomological Watercolor Collection (botanical prints of fruit) Newspaper Planting Pot The Art of Growing Things Learn the history of seed packets, then research a plant and create your own packet. Baby Peanut Plants Students examine raw peanuts to find the “baby peanuts” inside and then sprout them on paper towels. A Bean is a Seed Students will learn about germination by sprouting beans and caring for them in small necklaces which they keep around their necks.   Bee Smart. Bee Happy Students learn basic information about bees and the importance of pollination in crop production. Includes a take home Parent Page with information about the Africanized honey bee (sometimes erroneously called "killer bees.") Circles Students will make bracelets representing life cycles. Dirt Babies Students will observe grass sprouting and growing like hair on heads they create from knee-high nylon stockings and potting medium. Eat Your Flowers Students grow flowers in different soil types to determine the effect on flavor. Fantastic Flower Students learn the anatomy of a flower and play a game in which they act out the pollination process. Funky Fungus Students observe the growth of fungus on slices of bread. Garden Grid Students create a grid and plan a garden, allowing sufficient space for each plant to grow. Garden Guard Students will work in small groups or individually to create scarecrows, write brief descriptions about them and display them in a class scarecrow show. A Garden in the Mailbox Students will examine seed catalogs and find information about plants, growing seasons, etc. Germination Observations The students germinate seeds under a variety of conditions. A Growing Market The student will research and grow a plant and present findings orally. A Hidden Beauty Students construct a model of a plant that grows from a bulb. How to Pick the Best Students learn what to look for when selecting fresh fruits and vegetables. Melon Meiosis Students will learn how seedless watermelon were developed and model the process of mitosis and meiosis in watermelons, using jelly beans. Mighty Oaks From Little Acorns Students make the connection between seeds and trees by gathering and planting acorns. Next Year's Seeds The student will play a game demonstrating variables that affect the food supply. Particulate Matter in the Air Students gather particles that settle from the air in different settings. Plant Parts We Eat Students will be introduced to an assortment of vegetables and will learn to locate the parts humans use for food. Playing in the Dirt: Discovering Soil Students will use their science process skills to discover the percentage of sand, silt, loam or clay in soil samples. A Priceless Collection The student will read a story about the life of Russian plant breeder Nikolai I. Vavilov and the national seed bank he established. Seed Swapping Students will practice and review place values, using seeds as manipulatives. Sock Walk Students take a walk wearing socks over their shoes to learn how some seeds travel. The Sunflower Story Students will learn what plants need to grow by listening and responding to the story of a sunflower. Sunny Sunflowers Students create models of sunflowers and play a game to demonstrate how plants grow in relation to light. Symbiosis in Agriculture Students compare insect relationships according to their symbiosis class—parasitism, commensalism, mutualism. Where the Blue Fern Grows Growing fern from fern spores. top Pumpkins and Other Lessons for Fall For pottage and puddings and custards and pies, Our pumpkins and parsnips are common supplies, We have pumpkins at morning and pumpkins at noon, If it were not for pumpkins we should be undoon. —Pilgrim verse, circa 1630 More Poems and Songs Ag in the Outfield The student will learn about the many agricultural products used in a baseball game. Ag in the Playing Fields All the ways agriculture is used in sports, including the grass in the fields. Be a Food Explorer Students will try a variety of unfamiliar fruits and vegetables, research their origins and develop recipes. (Columbus Day) Bug's Eye View The student construct an insect holder and observe and classify insects. Case of the Missing Pumpkin Student observe decomposition of a pumpkin. Catch as Catch Can The student will construct an insect catch net and capture insects for observation. A Field of Stars An apple story A Hundred Bales of Hay Students practice patterns on a hundreds chart while learning about hay production, past and present. Make Mine Turkey Students compare foods available for the Pilgrim's Thanksgiving with contemporary Thanksgiving meals. Students create a menu and compute the cost of a turkey dinner, using grocery ads. Pop Around the World Students will learn about the origin of popcorn and locate countries where it is grown on a world map. Pumpkins By The Pound Students use pumpkins of various sizes to experiment with weight and perimeter. Pumpkins, Squash and Other Cucurbits Many activities with squash and pumpkins. A Tough Nut to Crack Students evaluate the quality of pecans based on a set of criteria. A Trip to the Animal Fair Students examine the needs of pets and other animals and compare them with their own needs. top Soil Science Compost Basics NEH Dust Bowl Site Painting With Soil (NRCS lesson) The Twelve Soil Orders (University of Idaho) Oklahoma Groundbreakers: Read about Oklahoma's own Fred Hoeme, the inventor of the plow that saved the southwest I Love Dirt Sing to the tune of “Three Blind Mice:” I love dirt. I love dirt. It can’t hurt On my shirt. I love to squirt it with my hose. I love to squeeze it between my toes. The fun we have just grows and grows. Oh, I love dirt. I love dirt   Bubbles in the Cabbage Juice Students conduct experiments to discover carbon dioxide. Dark Days on the Prairie Students write descriptive paragraphs based on pictures from the Dust Bowl, label a map showing the Oklahoma counties and surrounding states affected by the Dust Bowl, and research climatic conditions of the area. Dirty Pictures Student compose pictures using the many different colors of Oklahoma soil. The Farmer Cares for the Land The student will identify cause and effect relationships in issues relating to agriculture and the environment. Let It Rain Demonstrations showing students the effects of water erosion on soil. Look Out, Below! Student learn the four layers of soil and identify the substances that make up each level. Manure Happens: Nutrients in Livestock Manure Students reinforce science and math skills while learning about the nutrients found in livestock manure. Mighty Earth Movers Students build a habitat for worms and record observations. Mud in the Water The student will build a soil erosion model and learn the importance of soil conservation. Playing in the Dirt: Discovering Soil Students will use their science process skills to discover the percentage of sand, silt, loam or clay in soil samples. Soak It Up Student do an experiment with different kinds of soil to observe how well each holds water and how organic matter increases the amount of water soil will hold. top Take It Outside Oklahoma Dirt Shirt Crafts Games Newspaper Planting Pot Be a Bug Scout Students count insects or specified weeds in a given area to experience how farmers decide whether or not to use pesticides. Bee Dance The student will construct bee puppets and use them to act out some bee behaviors. Bug's Eye View The student construct an insect holder and observe and classify insects. Chewed Paper and Sticky Stuff Students make adhesives from some common food substances and use flour paste to make pinatas and other crafts from papier mache. Circles Students will make bracelets representing life cycles. Creepy Crawly Critters Students will learn characteristics of insects by creating models from an assortment of materials. Dirt Babies Students will observe grass sprouting and growing like hair on heads they create from knee-high nylon stockings and potting medium. Dirty Pictures Student compose pictures using the many different colors of Oklahoma soil. Painting With Soil (NRCS lesson) Egg Toss Students practice counting by playing a game with an egg carton and ping pong balls. Fantastic Flower Students learn the anatomy of a flower and play a game in which they act out the pollination process. Farm Babies Students use flash cards to learn names for mother and baby farm animals, then play a game in which students designated as babies must find students designated as mothers. Fresh From the Farm Student learn about farmer’s markets and complete a survey to learn what kinds of produce is grown by local farmers and gardeners. Great Balls of Fire Students investigate the flammability of natural and synthetic fabrics while practicing safe procedures. Let It Rain Demonstrations showing students the effects of water erosion on soil. A Lovely Captive Students will construct a habitat which will allow them to observe the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Manure Happens: Nutrients in Livestock Manure Students reinforce science and math skills while learning about the nutrients found in livestock manure. Mighty Earth Movers Students build a habitat for worms and record observations. Mighty Oaks From Little Acorns Students make the connection between seeds and trees by gathering and planting acorns. Mud in the Water The student will build a soil erosion model and learn the importance of soil conservation. Particulate Matter in the Air Students gather particles that settle from the air in different settings. Pollinator Habitats Students research, interview experts and design pollinator habitats Powerful Potato The student will observe the growth process of a potato. Pumpkins By The Pound Students use pumpkins of various sizes to experiment with weight and perimeter. Sock Walk Students take a walk wearing socks over their shoes to learn how some seeds travel. Stick Horse Rodeo Students will learn about the rodeo and hold their own rodeos with age-appropriate activities like "Pig Herding" ( herding balloons or balls), barrel racing with a stick horse, "Wild Cow Milking," "Scatter Square Dancing," etc. Sticks and Stones Students will design and construct simple agricultural tools. Sunny Sunflowers Students create models of sunflowers and play a game to demonstrate how plants grow in relation to light. A Tough Nut to Crack Students evaluate the quality of pecans based on a set of criteria. Weeds on the Windowsill An examination of the need for pesticides. Students compare the results when they grow plants in two kinds of garden soil, one of which has been treated (by boiling water) to kill weed seeds and one which has not. Working Watermelon Student perform estimates, measurements and calculations on a watermelon. Writing the Wind Students build a model of a windmill and compose sentences or phrases, using adjectives to describe the windmill. top Weather Crickets on the Hearth Students design and conduct investigations with crickets. Dark Days on the Prairie Students write descriptive paragraphs based on pictures from the Dust Bowl, label a map showing the Oklahoma counties and surrounding states affected by the Dust Bowl, and rese