With the early signs of spring awakening once more, this could be the perfect time to get the whole class involved in some gardening. You don’t need to have a lot of space on the grounds of your facility, here are some great ways – and reasons – to make this the term to introduce your very own classroom garden!
- Select appropriate plants
Choose plants that are easy to grow indoors and suitable for the classroom environment. Consider plants like spider plants, pothos, succulents, or herbs like basil or mint, which are relatively low maintenance and can thrive indoors.
- Educational objectives
Tie the plant-growing activity to the curriculum objectives. This could include lessons on plant life cycles, photosynthesis, the importance of plants in the environment, or even cultural significance of certain plants.
For instance, in science, students can learn about plant biology, ecology, and environmental science. In literacy, they can write reports, poems, or stories about their plants. In numeracy, they can measure growth, track data, and create graphs.
Explore connections to other subjects such as art (drawing or painting the plants), geography (learning about different plant habitats), and even social studies (studying the historical significance of certain plants).
- Plan for care
Assign specific responsibilities to students for watering, pruning, and monitoring the plants’ growth. This not only teaches responsibility but also encourages teamwork and collaboration.
- Create a dedicated space
Set up a designated area in the classroom for the plants, ensuring they have access to adequate sunlight (if applicable) and are out of the way of foot traffic.
- Provide necessary materials
Make sure you have all the supplies you need, including pots, soil, watering cans, and any other tools necessary for planting and caring for the plants.
- Document the process
Encourage students to keep journals or notebooks to record observations, measurements, and any changes they notice in the plants over time. This can be a great way to incorporate science and writing skills.
- Connect with local resources
Reach out to local nurseries, botanical gardens, or agricultural extension offices for additional support, resources, or even guest speakers to enhance the learning experience.
- Celebrate milestones
Recognise and celebrate the students’ efforts and the plants’ growth milestones. This could include holding a “harvest” party if you’re growing edible plants like herbs, or simply displaying student artwork inspired by the plants.
- Encourage reflection
At the end of the project, have students reflect on what they’ve learned, any challenges they faced, and how their understanding of plants has evolved. This can help solidify their learning and provide valuable feedback for future projects.
- Hands-on Learning:
Emphasise the importance of hands-on learning by involving students in every step of the plant-growing process, from planting seeds or cuttings to caring for the plants and observing their growth. Encourage sensory exploration by allowing students to touch, smell, and even taste (if the plants are edible) the plants. This can deepen their understanding and connection to nature.
- Environmental Awareness:
Use the plant-growing project as an opportunity to discuss broader environmental issues such as the importance of plants for oxygen production, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation.
Encourage sustainable practices by teaching students about composting, water conservation, and recycling, and how these practices relate to plant growth and ecosystem health.
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As part of your gardening project, why not introduce a classroom ‘Gratitude Tree’. Download your free template and get the kids to fill out the leaves.
During a dedicated time each week, get them to add their leaf to the branches and see how the tree blooms as the term progresses!
