This lesson is for : Grade 8:
Summary
Alfred Austin said, “To nurture a garden is to feed not just on the body, but the soul.” The FMS Community Garden’s fresh food and outdoor classroom not only provides a unique learning experience for students but also a nutritional package for the community in Henrico’s east end. As an extension to content learned in World History, students work in self-selected groups to research historical gardens. Using digital tools, students design and create a historical element to add to the community garden and present their creations to the class. Motivated by their learning, students decide to create an actual herb spiral and zen garden as a contribution to this community pillar. From clearing sod to navigating the tiller, students work together to create all aspects of their chosen garden additions. After creation, students reflect on their experience incorporating service and classroom experience.
TIPC Ratings
Research & Information Fluency
Rating: Approaching – Explanation: The main goal of this assignment was to utilize previous learned research strategies, like determining accuracy and authority of information, to create a zen garden for the FMS Community Garden. The students assembled their research in a creative manner and it served as a contribution to the school and neighborhood community. The assignment was an authentic experience for the students, for it allowed students to investigate a garden element of their choice.
Communication & Collaboration
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: Communication and collaboration was a major focus in this project. Students selected their own groups, created their own roles, and established norms to complete the project. From their previous experience of using Google Drive, they selected the tool as a major form of communication between groups. Students took time for thoughtful reflection, and communicated outside of the school walls through the use of a blog. This was an authentic experience for the students because it provided
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Rating: Not observed
Creativity & Innovation
Rating: Not observed
Student Artifact
Lesson Materials
