Date of Award

2012

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Education (MSEd)

First Advisor

Michele Morales

Abstract

The current food industry is a vast and confusing system that often generates contradicting information, new jargon and trends on how and what to eat. Most families in urban and suburban regions shop at local grocery stores, supermarkets or chains and are far removed from the origins of their food supply. Even with the growing support of farmers markets and local farmers, the average person no longer has access to an actual farm. Children in particular, are less likely to understand how a farm operates, the essential role of the farmer, the impact of seasonal changes on food supplies and how food gets from the farm to their tables. This study is designed to correlate with the seasonal changes that occur on a farm during the school year. Children are introduced to the topic of farms and learn about the harvesting season from September to early November. The dormant season is explored from November to January. Preparation for spring is studied from January to March and the growing season is explored from April to June. This emphasis on the seasons gives third graders a better understanding of how important the farm is in the lives of families. Students will have opportunities to explore a local farm and become acquainted with the operation of the farm and one of the local farmers. This study will take children back to the roots of food -the farm -and their own roots -the family, to gain a better understanding of how farming impacts on the food selections within their families. In addition, children will have opportunities to share cultural and agricultural influences of food selections in their own lives and in the lives of people in different regions and times.

Comments

Childhood general education (Program of study)

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