Farm Unit

May has arrived and we are gearing up for a fun new unit-- the Farm!  Last month we learned about community helpers, so to begin the farm theme we started by talking about Farmers.  Most of our students have been to a farm because our suburban neighborhood is just a few minutes away from some beautiful rural communities.

The graphic organizer that we used as we starting thinking about farmers was a "Can-Have-Are" chart.  The students brainstormed all the things they know about farmers.  The chart above is from my younger class.  I especially like "Farmers have ARMS!"  :)

We pulled out our Little People farm set.  Even our older students were engaged in wonderful role play with these toys!

One of our favorite circle time activities is to play the "Memory Tray" game.  I gather a tray of theme relates items.  This month, it was 7 of the farm pieces from the Little People set.  We talk about each item, and count the total number of items.  Then, I cover the tray with a  bandanna and remove 1 object.  The students have to use their concentration and memory skills to determine "Which one is Missing?"  It is such a simple and effective way to improve their concentration, focus and memory.

Have fun playing and learning with your children today.