We teach agriculture because it is essential for life. We need the food, fiber, and fuel from agriculture to survive. One of the biggest things I hear from teachers is "I teach geography, language arts, etc. How does Agriculture fit into that?" I would like to share with you something that I found on South Dakota Ag in the Classroom page. This illustrates that agriculture does fit into all of the different areas we teach. It is possible to make it part of our curriculum.

Why Educate About Agriculture?

You teach geography. Travel the world by discovering how climate, altitude, soil types and other elements influence the food and fiber systems that provide students with almost everything that they eat, wear, and use on a daily basis.

Your students are exploring careers. Agriculture is a world of opportunity. As one of the nation's largest employers, agriculture offers a vast and exciting selection of careers. There are approximately 22 million people who work in agricultural related fields.

You teach science and technology. Agriculture has changed science and technology in major ways over the past 100 years. Just think of the possibilities for science fair projects.

You teach business and economics. Agriculture is a significant industry in both national and international economies. Examine how agriculture effects supply and demand on pricing and products.

You teach history. Agriculture has had significant impact on the history and heritage of world civilizations. From ancient Egypt to colonial times, agriculture tells the story of how civilizations emerged.

You teach language arts. Explore creative writing by displaying some printed advertisements for nutritious foods. After the students read them, guide them in identifying and describing the features of the advertisements. Challenge each student to choose a food and create their own advertisement.

You teach mathematics. Agriculture provides an innovative and hands on twist to standard mathematical curriculum. Use agricultural statistics to help students solve mathematical problems.

The 2009-2010 school year will be starting soon. To learn more on how your student, classroom or school can become involved in Ag in the Classroom contact Aimee Chandler at 815-268-4051 or at alchandl@illinois.edu.