5th grade Program
During the summer the curriculum was set up, booklets designed for the kids, meetings with teachers and presenters begun, and planning started for a great day with the kids at the farm. Care was taken to make sure that this program matches the Illinois State Learning Standards, enabling teachers to integrate it into their current classroom activities. The 5th grade farm days are an exciting day of learning and fun.
Each student receives a workbook to use before and after the visit to the farm. At the farm, they also receive a booklet that they use for journal writing. They learn about pre-settlement in 1830, school in 1860, and recycling in 1900, comparing each with what they know of their lives today.
Home School Programs
Home school students also participate in the 5th grade program, utilizing the same curriculum. This program has been adjust slightly to include students of various ages while still focusing on important learning guidelines. We look forward to being able to expand this program and reach more students.
Other Programs underway
Currently we are involved in providing a program for 2nd grade students to come to the farm and learn more about how their food is grown, also matched with their Illinois learning requirements. High School Agriculture classes attend various programs and tours at the farm all throughout the school year. Meeting the Illinois State Learning Standard requirements is very important to ensuring a connection with what children are learning in their classrooms. And, providing them with the tools to keep their farming communities alive is vital.
As much as we would like to, these programs are not able to be provided free of charge. The 5th grade program alone costs almost $3000. But, you can help! We invite you to join us in these dynamic projects. If you would like to underwrite a program or becoming a volunteer, please contact us at [email protected]. We would love to have you be a part of this wonderful learning experience for children of all ages.