Seeds and The Next Generation

Jennifer Frasher

Synopsis

This unit will help students become actively engaged in understanding scientific processes and problem-solving, through the study of seeds and indigenous people native to their local environment. The overarching theme will be recognizing, understanding, and practicing indigenous wisdom, while studying, collecting, and growing local seeds and plants. Students will examine local phenomena and utilize science and engineering practices to deepen their understanding. They will develop a common vocabulary for seed and plant characteristics and life cycles. It is a flexible unit that can be valuable to urban settings, as well as suburban and rural. The unit also supports outdoor classroom usage and utilization of other school outdoor spaces. Exploring phenomena in the environment surrounding school and students’ neighborhoods will help teachers and students become active caretakers by practicing indigenous gardening and gathering techniques. Virtual lesson adaptations have been included for each activity.