Our elementary school learners recently showcased their entrepreneurial skills by hosting a farmers market at the school. This hands-on project allowed our learners to apply their knowledge from various subjects while raising funds for their school garden.
Cross-Subject Learning
The Farmers Market was an engaging and creative project incorporating various subjects such as math, art, science, communication, and business. The learners worked together to design banners, signs, and flyers to promote their market. They also learned about setting prices from both the perspective of a seller and a buyer.
After our Kindergarteners harvested carrots, they sorted them from small, medium, or large to sell them for $1, $2, or $3. Through participation in this project in different roles, from Kindergarteners to 5th graders, the learners explored various aspects of math. They learned about budgeting, calculating profits, and determining fair prices for their products. This real-life experience helped the learners better understand the value of money and financial decisions.
Art played a significant role in the Farmers Market project as well. In the STEAM class, the learners used their creativity to design eye-catching banners and signs to attract customers. They also learned about the aesthetics of presentation and how visual appeal can impact sales. This hands-on art experience allowed them to express their artistic talents while learning valuable marketing skills.
Science was another subject that came into play during the farmers market. Held it in January, the learners sold cool-season crops like kale, turnips, carrots, and lettuce. Some learners asked if they could sell tomatoes, but they learned tomatoes only grow in the warm season. Others said our vegetables are organic so that we could sell them at a higher price. We can start a conversation on the importance of organic farming practices and the impact of pesticides on the environment. This practical application of scientific knowledge will help them develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the importance of responsible farming.
Developing Entrepruneurship Skills
Communication skills were also honed during this project. The students had to communicate with each other to coordinate tasks and responsibilities effectively. They also interacted with customers, practicing their social and interpersonal skills. These interactions taught them the importance of clear and effective communication in a business setting.
Running the Farmers Market also gave the students a valuable business lesson. They had to consider various factors such as supply and demand, competition, and customer preferences. By setting prices for their products, they gained insight into the profit. This hands-on experience gave them a taste of what it takes to run a successful business.
The Farmers Market was a valuable learning experience for the learners and served as a fundraiser for the school garden. Their hard work paid off, selling all out and earning an impressive $379. This money will be used to maintain and enhance the garden education, allowing future learners to continue learning through hands-on gardening experiences.
Improvement & Conclusion
As the cold front came, we were rushed from the harvest to the market, and I was exhausted from doing all the process within a week. I hope to take more time to plan and set up the market so that the learners can fully organize the event and make it sustainable next time.
In conclusion, the elementary school learners’ Farmers Market was a resounding success. This cross-subject project allowed the students to apply their math, art, science, communication, and business knowledge. It provided them with a practical and engaging learning experience to develop entrepreneurship skills while raising funds for the school garden and positively impacting our community.
Thank you
I appreciate the support from our amazing STEAM and classroom teachers and their flexibility in letting the learners help with the preparation and the market. Our Principal did a significant help with advertising to share the information on the school communication system and SNS. I am grateful for their support, which made the event successful.
