What is Organic?
Grade Level: 
Summary: 
Many of us are familiar with the term “organic”. But even if we can define it, we don’t always take the time to explore what “organic” represents. In this lesson, students will explore and discuss their understanding of what “organic” is, and what it represents to them.
Student Learning Goals & Objectives: 
  • Explore and discuss their understanding of what organic is, and what it represents to them.
  • Prepare for and participate effectively in a range of conversations and collaborations with diverse partners, building on others' ideas, and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
  • Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Download Lesson Materials
Teaching Notes: 
  • This lesson emphasizes an open discussion. For tips, suggestions, and resources for leading open discussions please see the documents: Mindsets for Open Discussions and Facilitating Open Discussions.
  • The “READ” sections of this lesson plan can be used as talking points or a script to introduce activities. Please note, these sections simply provide brief introductions to the topics. We recommend using your experiences to add more information and context to the topics being covered.
  • If you are teaching this lesson in the garden, we suggest completing the sections as a whole class or in small groups. The garden is a great place for discussion-based lessons.
  • This lesson is part of Edible Schoolyard Project’s Understanding Organic curriculum and is the first lesson in the “core lessons” of the curriculum.