

The Malcom Garden
Activity & Lesson Ideas for
October & November
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October
Some great ideas for Fall, but feel free to use these lessons and activities anytime during the year.

Garden Planning Activity K-5
Students learn what people need to create a successful a garden and what plants need to thrive. Through a hands-on activity, students learn about mapping and construct a “bird’s-eye-view” picture of a garden bed. Through a reflection process, students work together to make group decisions in planning a classroom garden.
Introduction to Watering Activity K-3
Children will learn that plants need water just like people and animals need water. They will explore dry and wet soil and be able to describe the difference between them. Children will practice testing soil for dampness using their fingers. Children will be introduced to a rain gauge and its purpose.
Searching the Garden Safely Activity K-5
Students learn appropriate garden behavior and apply their new knowledge to explore the garden safely.
Goals: As a class, students will create “garden tips” that will teach and reinforce appropriate garden behavior. Students will use their senses to explore and investigate the world around them.
Theme Garden Ideas K-5
Theme gardens are an excellent way to foster the love of gardening with your children. The inspiration for a theme garden can come from many things like a story, a favorite food, a favorite color, a historical event, or a favorite animal. As you brainstorm, let your younger gardener’s imagination run wild and then search for plant that help you achieve your chosen theme (and that will grow well in your area).
November
Some great ideas for Fall, but feel free to use these lessons and activities anytime during the year.


Eating in Season Activity - Grades 3-5
Guide students in using scientific inquiry to design a seasonal taste test and investigate what produce is grown nearby seasonally, if locally grown foods tastes better, and what other factors might play a role in flavor. Groups will graph and summarize results and the class has the opportunity to discuss benefits of seasonal meal planning and eating locally grown products.