Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC) helps teachers across Minnesota increase agricultural literacy with their students through a variety of different experiences and learning opportunities. MAITC Resource Specialist Jessica Blosberg did just that with students at Kasson-Mantorville Elementary School for their 1st Grade Earth Science Immersion Day.
Kasson-Mantorville Elementary School 1st Grade Earth Science Immersion Day
On April 15, 2024, Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom Resource Specialist Jessica Blosberg met with 175 first grade students from Kasson-Mantorville Elementary School to celebrate Earth Day. The main focus was to learn about the importance of observing and caring for our environment. Students participated in an apple demonstration that taught them how much of the Earth’s surface has soil suitable for agricultural purposes.
Earth Demonstration with Apples
Each lesson began with a reading of The Apple Orchard Riddle by Margaret McNamara and G. Brian Karas. Students then gathered for a demonstration of slicing and peeling an apple. The apple represents the Earth and how much of the land on earth is available for growing food. Students learned that only about 1/32 of the surface of the Earth is suitable for agriculture. The other 31/32s are too cold or hot, too wet or dry, and unsuitable for crop production.
The lessons addressed in the classroom visit taught how difficult it is to grow crops when the area is too hot, cold, wet, or dry. Students also learned about the importance of healthy soil. To conclude the lesson, students were asked for examples of what individuals can do to help the Earth.
Impact of the Earth Science Immersion Day
All 175 students in attendance during the sessions participated in discussions about the importance of caring for our environment. Connections throughout the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom Resource Specialist visit taught students the little things we do as individuals can have a big impact on the health of our soil, as well as our own health.
Free Classroom Resources
Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom provides many resources to K-12 educators across the state with a vision that agriculture is valued by all. Resources include curricula, FREE print pieces, teacher tours, grants and more. Learn more about these and other resources in our educator center or visit mn.agclassroom.org.