Farm and Ranch Unit Overview
Welcome to our Farm and Ranch Unit—an immersive 8-week journey into the diverse and fascinating world of agriculture! Each week, students will dig into a different aspect of farming, exploring where our food and everyday products come from through hands-on learning, outdoor experiences, and creative projects.
This unit is designed to foster a deep appreciation for the hard work, science, and stewardship that goes into producing the things we often take for granted. From planting grains and hatching chicks to harvesting citrus and sewing with cotton, students will gain real-world knowledge and skills while connecting with the land, the seasons, and the systems that sustain us.
WEEK 1: Where Does Your Food Come From?
Farms of America
We begin by zooming out to see the big picture. Students will explore the many types of farms across America—dairy, poultry, produce, flower, grain, and more—and learn how geography, soil, and climate affect what’s grown and raised. We’ll dive into food systems, distribution, and farm-to-table connections. Students will map farms by region and track where their own meals come from.
WEEK 2: Poultry Farm
Incubation • Hatchery • Meat Birds • Laying Hens
This week, we take a closer look at poultry farming. Students will explore the life cycle of chickens from egg to adult, and learn the different roles poultry play—from egg-laying to meat production. If available, we’ll incubate fertilized eggs and observe chick development. Discussions will include ethical animal care and the basics of homestead poultry keeping.
WEEK 3: Flower Farms
Native Flowers • Flower Arrangements • Flower Garden
From pollinators to petals, students will explore the beauty and purpose of flower farming. We’ll study native wildflowers, design and arrange floral bouquets, and start our own small flower garden. Lessons will highlight pollination, soil prep, and flower anatomy, as well as the cultural and economic value of floral farming.
WEEK 4: Grain Farms
Plant Wheat • Milling • Friendship Bread
Grain farming has shaped civilizations! This week, we’ll plant wheat seeds, study the history and science of grain farming, and learn about harvesting and milling. Students will get to mill flour by hand and use it to make “friendship bread” they can share with others. Topics include food preservation, global grain economies, and gluten.
WEEK 5: Husbandry Farms
Fencing • Property Maintenance • Farm Animal Anatomy
Students will get hands-on with the practical side of animal husbandry. We'll explore fencing types, barn upkeep, and tools used to maintain safe and productive farm spaces. We'll also study animal anatomy, focusing on common farm animals like goats, sheep, pigs, and cows. Lessons in responsibility and stewardship take center stage this week.
WEEK 6: Mushroom and Microgreen Farms
Mycoremediation • Grow Mushrooms • Start Mini Microgreens
A venture into modern farming methods! This week, we’ll dive into fungi and microgreens. Students will explore mycoremediation—the use of mushrooms to clean and heal environments—and grow their own edible mushrooms. We’ll also learn about the nutrient density of microgreens and start a mini farm to take home and tend.
WEEK 7: Citrus Farms
Prune and Harvest Outsiders Orchard • Lemonade Stand
Using the Outsiders orchard as our classroom, students will learn about citrus farming, tree pruning, harvesting, and the nutritional value of citrus fruits. After working in the orchard, students will use lemons to launch a lemonade stand, applying skills in marketing, teamwork, and basic business—all while squeezing fresh learning from real experiences!
WEEK 8: Cotton and Almond Farms
Cotton Uses • Almonds Around the World • Handsewn Patch Quilt
In our final week, we study two major California crops—cotton and almonds. Students will learn about the life cycle and processing of cotton, explore its many uses, and sew a simple hand-patched quilt square. We’ll also explore the global trade and nutritional impact of almonds, with hands-on tastings and cultural comparisons.
What to Expect Each Week:
Daily hands-on activities tied to the weekly theme
Outdoor exploration and real-world applications
Science and history integration throughout the unit
Creative projects including cooking, gardening, woodworking, sewing, and more
Community collaboration and opportunities to showcase learning
By the end of this unit, students will have a deeper understanding of the food systems they depend on, the value of hard work, and the beauty of nature’s design. They’ll leave with a toolkit of skills—from baking and planting to caring for animals and making sustainable choices. Most importantly, they’ll leave with gratitude for the land, the farmers, and the gifts of creation.