Topic: Food and Health - Exploring Oliver’s Vegetables

Desired Outcome: I explore and discover where foods come from as I choose, prepare, and taste different foods.

Week 1: - Introduction to the topic: Read the story “Oliver’s Vegetables” by Vivian French. - Discuss the importance of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables for our health. - Introduce the concept of different food groups and their benefits. - Engage in a class discussion about the vegetables mentioned in the story and their characteristics.

Week 2: - Visit a local farm or invite a farmer to the classroom to talk about where vegetables come from. - Observe and discuss the process of growing vegetables, from planting seeds to harvesting. - Engage in a hands-on activity of planting seeds in small pots or a school garden. - Discuss the importance of taking care of plants and the environment.

Week 3: - Introduce a variety of vegetables mentioned in the story, such as carrots, peas, potatoes, and beans. - Discuss the different ways these vegetables can be prepared and cooked. - Engage in a cooking activity where children help prepare a simple vegetable dish, such as carrot sticks or mashed potatoes. - Encourage children to taste the prepared vegetables and discuss their flavors and textures.

Week 4: - Explore different types of vegetables that are not mentioned in the story, such as broccoli, spinach, or tomatoes. - Discuss the nutritional benefits of these vegetables and how they contribute to our overall health. - Engage in a sensory activity where children can touch, smell, and taste different vegetables. - Encourage children to express their preferences and discuss the importance of trying new foods.

Week 5: - Recap the different vegetables explored throughout the topic. - Engage in a group discussion about the children’s favorite vegetables and why they like them. - Create a class display showcasing the journey of Oliver’s vegetables, including drawings, photographs, and descriptions. - Reflect on the learning experiences and discuss how the children’s understanding of food and health has developed.

Assessment: - Observe and document children’s participation and engagement during discussions, activities, and cooking sessions. - Encourage children to share their thoughts and experiences through drawings, oral presentations, or written reflections. - Assess children’s ability to identify different vegetables and their understanding of where food comes from. - Monitor children’s willingness to try new foods and their ability to express their preferences.

Extension Activities: - Invite parents or family members to share their favorite vegetable recipes or cooking traditions. - Organize a class trip to a local farmers’ market or grocery store to explore a wider variety of fruits and vegetables. - Encourage children to create their own vegetable-themed artwork or stories inspired by Oliver’s Vegetables.