I can’t believe that fall is coming…my apologies to those that live in the Southern Hemisphere, and to those that aren’t retired teachers and really can’t believe that fall is here.
Tis the season of cooler weather, apples and pumpkins – that is next month’s blog. There are so many different types of apples. This is a great authentic topic to explore with all age groups. For the youngest learners, counting apples, discussing the color of apples and then moving into an authentic project with apples. Baking – perhaps have them list all of the recipes they think you can use apples as an ingredient, and then vote as a class as to what you all would like to bake. Selling – opening an apple stand in your classroom and selling apples to other teachers. Use the money to buy an “apple treat” for the class. As learners get older you can include the cost and profit of selling the apples. Track which kind of apples sell best. Donate the money to a charity that the class selects. You can see how a simple project can turn into reading, writing, math, social awareness skills…limitless authentic directions to take this.
With older learners you can get in to the science of how and where different types of apples are grown. The best places to grow apples and why. Cross pollination and genetic engineering – how this works, how long it takes… What a great presentation to make to a class. And this can be individualized to each learner’s interests – genetic engineering of any plant, or animal, pros and cons, ethics…
Meanwhile, enjoy the start to the fall season. And eat an apple!
The Educational Journey 