《Teacher Guide》.pdfVIP

Teacher Guide Issue 2, 2008/2009 Many of you are aware of the Minnesota Agriculture in the Why Ag in the Classroom Classroom MAITC education program. Initiated in 1986, MAITC is a unique public/private partnership between Agriculture is constantly changing, but one thing is constant: the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the MAITC our survival depends on it. Even as early as the primary Foundation. The overall program goal is to advance grades, it is important for students to gain an understanding agricultural literacy to all learners, especially K-12 students and appreciation for the ways agriculture touches their lives. and educators. MAITC’s mission is to “promote understanding Food does not magically appear in the grocery store or and awareness of the importance of agriculture.” on the kitchen table. It all starts with agriculture. Only two percent of Americans work directly in farming, feeding and Last year, we piloted our new AgMag Jr. with one issue. It providing fiber for all of us. Millions more work in agriculture- was very well received! This year, we are providing two related jobs. issues. Issue 1 was sent to schools in November. Issue 2 Today’s students are tomorrow’s community leaders, policy is coming to you now. Educators using the magazine may setters and voters. Making wise decisions about our gigantic expect two unique issues annually, in December and March agriculture lifeline is vital to our nation’s future. Giving each year. students literacy to prepare them for those decisions is what Ag in the Classroom is all about. The AgMag Jr. is written for and targeted at FIRST GRADE. Issue 1 reflects a reading level and activities for earlier in the school year; Issue 2 reflects increased reading and skill levels AgMag Jr. Content students have gained near the end of the school year. Other primary grade level educators may also use the AgMag Jr. Issue 1 focuses on the general theme “Agriculture is as appropriate. It is impor