AGRICULTURE IN THE CLASSROOM (AITC)

- is a free, educational program designed for 3rd-6th grade students in Peoria County. Rooted in science, our 30-minute lessons are IL Standards-based and offer exposure to America’s food, fiber, and fuel (energy) system.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Glover, Ag Literacy Coordinator, at agcoordinator.peoriacounty@gmail.com.

A few of our AITC students had questions about all the pumpkins that are grown right here in Central Illinois. We would like to thank the Princeville FFA officers for answering their questions.

August/
September

AGRICULTURE AND FARMER’S MARKETS

Agriculture is an important part of our everyday lives. We want to guide students to make agricultural connections with the products they use daily. Students will discover the various markets in Peoria that provide them with opportunities to buy goods locally and meet local farmers. Finally, students will uncover all the individuals that play a key role in getting the products they depend on from a farm to their table.

October

SOIL

Only 3% of the earth’s surface contains adequate soil for us to grow all our food in the world. Students will identify techniques used to care for and protect this natural resource. Our discussion will focus on the different types and components of soil and the rich soil in Illinois. The students will also learn about the threats to our soil and what farmers are doing to protect this valuable resource. In addition, we will highlight composting in the classroom and the local ag business Better Earth.

November

AG IN SPORTS - BASEBALL AND FOOTBALL

America’s favorite past time is participating in sports. Did you realize that these sports would not be possible without numerous ag commodities? Everything from the food we consume to the equipment used to the tickets purchased for a game originated on a farm. Students will learn where all their favorite food, gear and programs originated and uncover the importance of Ag in their favorite sport.

January

POPCORN

Students in Peoria County can’t travel very far without seeing a corn field. But do they know that not all corn is the same? Students will discover the differences between field corn, sweet corn, and popcorn. Our focus will be on popcorn and provide details on how it is grown and harvested in Illinois. We will dive into the unique properties of popcorn that makes it the perfect variety to snack on and how it became our state snack.

February

SHEEP

It’s cold outside, time to bundle up. But do we really know where that warm coat or sweater comes from?  The students will learn all about the sheep industry. Not only how the animals are cared for, how their hair becomes clothing that keeps us warm, but also about how this renewable resource is used to help our world in other amazing ways! The students will get to see and touch a REAL baby LAMB! LOOK FOR SCHEDULES TO CHANGE TO ACCOMMODATE THE BABY LAMB VISITS.

March

MONARCH BUTTERFLIES

Pollinators are vital creatures in the production of our food.  The monarch butterfly has diminished in numbers. One reason is due to the lack of adequate habitats for butterflies.  We will share facts about the monarch butterfly, give details about the monarch butterflies’ cycle and migration pattern, and identify the native plants to Illinois that are vital for pollinators. We will discuss how students can help provide natural habitats for pollinators. Students will create and plant a seed bomb to provide food for pollinators.

April

GARDENING AND HERBS

You do not have to own several acres or have a large space in your backyard to grow delicious, nutritious food. Growing your own food can start small and simple with a few key components and steps. Students will uncover just how simple and rewarding it is to plant a seed and harvest a crop that can add flavor to any meal. We will share facts about various herbs grown in Illinois and provide materials for each student to start their herb garden.