A young child holds a freshly picked potato in a garden

A K–4 hands-on unit of study that builds scientific habits of mind and celebrates the cycles found in a garden community.

Cycles in the Garden is a hands-on unit of study which builds scientific habits of mind and celebrates the cycles found in a garden community. The lessons integrate math, science, literacy, and social studies while students practice stewardship skills in a classroom Grow Lab and school yard garden habitat. Through experiments, ongoing observation, tasting, and planting, students develop an understanding of, appreciation for, and curiosity about the processes and cycles involved in the plants and animals making their home in the soil right outside their door. 

  • Lesson One: What is a Plant?
  • Lesson Two: Seed Power
  • Lesson Three: Sprouts & Seedlings
  • Lesson Four: I Wonder What Will Happen If...
  • Lesson Five: Get Into the Garden
  • Lesson Six: Soil Field Trip
  • Lesson Seven: Plant Parts We Eat
  • Lesson Eight: Our Garden Community

Please note: This resource will be updated in 2024.

Communications
By downloading this resource, you'll begin receiving periodic communications from Shelburne Farms Institute for Sustainable Schools about upcoming program opportunities and inspirational stories/ideas for your classroom.
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