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Objective

By the end of this lesson, Jordan will have a deeper understanding of gardening through a reading unit study that incorporates various subjects, enhancing skills in reading, spelling, life skills, and critical thinking while also learning about the importance of plants and sustainability.

Materials and Prep

  • Notebook and pen for note-taking
  • Gardening books or articles (can be found online)
  • Seeds or small plants (if available)
  • Access to a garden or a small pot for planting
  • Paper for spelling and ASL practice
  • Access to videos or resources for ASL signs related to gardening

Before starting, ensure that Jordan has a quiet space to read and write. Familiarize yourself with basic ASL signs related to gardening to enhance the learning experience.

Activities

  • Reading and Discussion:

    Jordan will read a chapter from a gardening book or an article about plants and their ecosystems. After reading, discuss the main ideas, asking questions like "What did you learn about the importance of plants?"

  • Spelling Bee:

    Create a list of gardening-related words (e.g., soil, photosynthesis, germination) for a fun spelling bee. This will help Jordan enhance vocabulary while connecting words to their meanings.

  • ASL Sign Language Practice:

    Jordan will learn and practice ASL signs for gardening-related terms. This can include words like "plant," "water," and "grow." Use online resources to find videos demonstrating the signs.

  • Planting Activity:

    If possible, have Jordan plant seeds or small plants in a garden or a pot. Discuss the steps involved in planting and caring for plants, emphasizing the importance of each step.

  • Critical Thinking Challenge:

    Present a scenario where a plant is not growing well. Ask Jordan to identify potential problems and brainstorm solutions. This will foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Talking Points

  • "Why do you think plants are essential for our environment?"
  • "Can you explain the process of photosynthesis in your own words?"
  • "What are some benefits of having a garden at home?"
  • "How can learning ASL help us communicate better about gardening?"
  • "What challenges do you think gardeners face, and how can they overcome them?"
  • "Why is it important to understand the life cycle of a plant?"
  • "How does planting a seed relate to setting and achieving goals in life?"