Ms. Bacon's Geometry class at Warren County High School got first-hand experience constructing low tunnels to extend our school garden's season. Low tunnels use light- and water-permeable garden blankets draped over low hoops to cover the garden beds. This blanket controls the climate underneath to ensure vegetables do not freeze and to protect plants from insects. In the high school garden, these tunnels have an added benefit of keeping deer from eating the produce.
The students first learned the importance of season extension and square foot gardening techniques in the classroom, and then went outside to measure their beds and collect information in four groups. The next day, students used the measurements and their calculations to plan their bed. They had a set amount of money to "purchase" supplies for their tunnels, compost, plants, seeds, and square footage of garden blanket. Once their supplies were purchased and handed out, they used their plans to both construct the low tunnels and plant their vegetables. Ms. Bacon saw mathematic learning potential in using the school garden, and used this creative activity to engage her students in outdoor learning. Plus, we had a lot of fun getting outside and in the garden!
The students first learned the importance of season extension and square foot gardening techniques in the classroom, and then went outside to measure their beds and collect information in four groups. The next day, students used the measurements and their calculations to plan their bed. They had a set amount of money to "purchase" supplies for their tunnels, compost, plants, seeds, and square footage of garden blanket. Once their supplies were purchased and handed out, they used their plans to both construct the low tunnels and plant their vegetables. Ms. Bacon saw mathematic learning potential in using the school garden, and used this creative activity to engage her students in outdoor learning. Plus, we had a lot of fun getting outside and in the garden!