Kindergarten Grade  Project 4 weeks

Fall Fiesta: Pumpkin & Apple Adventures!

Megan S
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.K.1
K-LS1-1
LS.2.B
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

This project aims to immerse kindergarten students in the vibrant season of fall through engaging, hands-on activities that explore the life cycles of plants, specifically apples and pumpkins. By integrating literacy, science, and sensory experiences, students will express their opinions, document their observations, and create recipes, fostering a deeper understanding of seasonal changes and the role of plants in our ecosystem. Through collaboration with community partners, students will connect classroom learning to real-world contexts, enhancing their self-directed learning, critical thinking, and sense of belonging.

Learning goals

Students will explore the unique characteristics of fall by engaging with pumpkins and apples, understanding their life cycles and nutritional benefits. They will express their opinions on favorite fall activities or foods through drawing, dictating, and writing, supported by reasons. Students will also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by creating and following recipes, and reflecting on their learning experiences through nature journaling and storytelling.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.K.1 - Use a combination of drawing, dictating, and writing to compose opinion pieces in which they tell a reader the topic or the name of the book they are writing about and state an opinion or preference about the topic or book (e.g., My favorite book is…).
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] K-LS1-1 - Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] LS.2.B - Cycles of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a vibrant mural illustrating the life cycle of apple trees and pumpkin plants, integrating their drawings and textures from hands-on exploration. They will compile a class cookbook with simple apple and pumpkin recipes, complete with student illustrations and step-by-step instructions. Additionally, students will assemble a sensory garden box with various apples and pumpkins for tactile and aromatic exploration. A short video documentary will capture the essence of their field trip experiences and interactions with community partners, showcasing their reflections on fall activities and foods. Finally, a 'Fall Discovery Board' will display students' nature journal entries, featuring sketches, leaf rubbings, and written reflections on their favorite fall experiences.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Pumpkin & Apple Exploration Day' where students engage in hands-on activities such as pumpkin carving, apple tasting, and creating apple prints. Rotate through interactive stations, encouraging discussions about the unique aspects of fall. This immersive launch will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration of the season's themes.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Fall Festival Showcase' where they guide family members and community partners through interactive stations, displaying their collaborative mural, class cookbook, and sensory garden box. They will narrate their experiences from the field trip and farmer visit in the 'Storytelling Circle,' using props and costumes. Visitors will also enjoy a 'Sensory Feast,' where students present apple and pumpkin snacks, sharing their opinions and descriptive language skills. A video documentary of the project journey will be screened, highlighting students' reflections and interactions with community partners.