Exploring Sustainable Agriculture: From Farm to Table

Title: Exploring Sustainable Agriculture: From Farm to Table

Compliance: Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

Subject: Agriculture Education

Summary: This activity engages eleventh-grade students in exploring sustainable agriculture practices and understanding the journey of food from farm to table.

Topic: Exploring Sustainable Agriculture

Learning Outcomes:

• Know the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture
• Understand the environmental, economic, and social impacts of sustainable agriculture
• Can analyze and evaluate the journey of food from farm to table

Methodology:

This activity will involve a combination of research, group discussions, hands-on activities, and presentations.

Resources/Materials Required:

• Access to computers or tablets with internet connectivity
• Books, articles, and online resources on sustainable agriculture
• Art supplies for creating visual aids (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Introduction (30 minutes)

Begin the activity by discussing the importance of sustainable agriculture and its impact on the environment, economy, and society. Use visual aids, such as infographics or videos, to engage students and spark their interest.

Step 2: Research (60 minutes)

Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a specific aspect of sustainable agriculture to research. Examples include organic farming, permaculture, hydroponics, and agroforestry. Provide students with access to books, articles, and online resources to gather information.

Step 3: Group Discussions (30 minutes)

Bring the groups back together and facilitate a discussion where each group presents their findings. Encourage students to ask questions and engage in critical thinking about the different practices of sustainable agriculture.

Step 4: Hands-on Activity (60 minutes)

Organize a hands-on activity where students get to experience sustainable agriculture practices firsthand. This could include visiting a local organic farm, setting up a small hydroponics system in the classroom, or creating a mini permaculture garden. Provide guidance and supervision throughout the activity.

Step 5: Presentation (30 minutes)

Ask each group to prepare a presentation summarizing their research, the hands-on activity, and the impact of their chosen sustainable agriculture practice. Encourage creativity and the use of visual aids to enhance their presentations.

Assessment:

Assess students' understanding and engagement through the following methods:

• Group presentation evaluation rubric
• Individual reflection papers on the importance of sustainable agriculture
• Class discussion participation and engagement

By the end of this activity, students should have a comprehensive understanding of sustainable agriculture practices and their impact on the environment, economy, and society. They should also be able to analyze and evaluate the journey of food from farm to table, considering the principles of sustainability.