For the Beans

Teaching Theme of the Week

from Education World®

Students grow vegetables, such as corn, beans, squash, and chilies, often used in recipes in Hispanic cultures.

Subjects: Science, Social Sciences 

Grade Levels: K-2, 3-5 

Objectives
Students will

• study the growth of vegetables often used in recipes in Hispanic cultures, and
• follow directions.

Keywords: vegetables, beans, corn, squash, chilies, recipes, Hispanic, culture, geography

Materials Needed

• a world map or globe
• cups or small pots
• soil
• dried beans (for example, pinto, kidney)
• corn, squash, or chili seeds
• water
• paper and pencils

Procedure

1. Show students the locations of Latin American countries on a world map or globe. Explain to students that corn, beans, chilies, and squash are vegetables often grown and eaten in those areas.
    
2. Divide the class into four groups. Distribute the cups or pots and soil. Give each group one kind of seed or bean.
    
3. Tell groups to put the soil and seeds in their cups or pots. Add water.
    
4. Have each group record the daily growth of the plants.

Variation 1: Have students grow different varieties of each plant; for example, have groups grow different kinds of beans (for example, kidney and pinto beans).

Variation 2: If your school has space for a garden, plant the seeds and beans outdoors.

Extension: Have elementary students research the history of the vegetables they are growing.

Assessment
Evaluate students' participation and ability to follow directions.

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