The students will learn why we need farmers, and that agriculture is a big industry full of many job opportunities. This unit allows the students to celebrate farmers and agriculture.
1 hour
The amount of time will vary depending on the age group that is participating.
If the students have already read the entire “We Grow Corn!” book, this unit will focus on pages 22-23. The world needs farmers because they are the reason we have food, fuel, clothes, and other products we use every day. Every year the number of people one farmer feeds increases, but being a farmer is not the only profession in agriculture. There are thousands of jobs in agriculture, many that people don’t realize are agriculture related.
Field Trip! Careers in Agriculture – YouTube provided by Into the Outdoors (24:34)
The world needs farmers. Like farmers, people who work in agriculture are trying to make products that are safe and healthy. Scientists create products using corn to replace products made of plastic. An example is packing peanuts. Plastic packing peanuts do not break down when put in a land fill however biodegradable peanuts when added to water will disappear, a much safer product for our environment. And what is great, they are made from corn! Let’s see if these peanuts are biodegradable. Afterwards we are going to celebrate all that farmers do by building a farm.
Instructions
Packing Peanut Building Ideas
Young students (preschool age) may find it easier to build their farm flat on the piece of paper. Older students should have success creating a three-dimensional farm. We would love to see what your students created by sharing on social media @kansascornstem.
This challenge can be done as a large or small group. Each group will need an electronic device to access the online challenge. If done in a large group, project the challenge onto the screen and designate one person to enter in the guesses. The first time they do an online challenge it may seem difficult but the more challenges they complete the easier and more fun they will become.
Answer Key
We Grow Corn! – The World Needs Farmers!
What role does corn play in our food? It is important for students to know where their food comes from. After completing this activity, students will be able to identify food that was made with corn.
Activity
Optional Online Breakout Box Challenge
If time allows there is an online challenge that goes with this activity.
Farm to Plate Answer Key
Out the Door
On the way out the door, have students tell you one thing they know is made of corn. Also encourage them to find items at home that contain corn.
This lesson is the work product of the Kansas Corn Commission. Our lessons are written in collaboration with Kansas teachers for use in the classroom. Teachers may copy and share this curriculum. Use of this product for commercial or promotional use is prohibited without express permission of Kansas Corn.
As the need to produce more food with less resources grows, it is important that future generations have a better understanding of agriculture and how corn farming and agriculture fit into our daily lives. That’s why the Kansas Corn STEM program provides lessons to teach science through the lens of corn. We are committed to providing free materials and training to support educators.
