Summer SAVY, Session 3 Day 3, “Plants & Pollen: Exploring Agricultural Engineering” (1st-2nd)
We started our morning together by reviewing what we have learned so far this week to include the topic of butterflies. We watched a video of a Monarch Butterfly going through metamorphosis. The next pollinator we learned about was bats. Students were amazed to learn about how many bats exist and were fascinated by what several of them looked like. With a partner, students read Incredible Insects and matched different parts of the pollination system to the role they play in the system. The pollination system ties directly to our theme of structure.
Before discussing Integrated Pest Management, we looked at the different jobs that farmers are responsible for and what happens on a farm. Students added their new knowledge to their Johari Learning Window. Part of the job that farmers have includes managing pest control. Students learned about pests and imagined how both farmers and agricultural engineers might consider solving this problem. Students read about common pests found in Tennessee to help them identify the insects we don’t want in our gardens.
Then, we transitioned to agricultural engineers and how they have an impact on sustainability and the improvement of farming practices which includes how to minimize environmental impacts like how to keep pests off of our crops so plants/fruits/nuts, etc. can grow using Integrated Pest Management and then we looked at the perspectives of farmers. Students continued to add to their Johari Learning Window.
We continued to read from our main story, Mariana Becomes a Butterfly, and learned about insects and plants and their complex relationships in natural systems, which can be helpful or harmful. The students then participated in reading a script that provides insight into the complex relationship between plants and insects. Students learned about how to make homemade paper and created homemade paper with Tennessee wildflower seeds incorporated. Once they are finished using their paper, they can tear it down and plant it to grow Tennessee wildflowers and watch for pollinators to come visit!
