Harvest Time! is an activity that teaches addition and subtraction to preschool children aged four to five years old. In this fifteen-minute activity, 15 students will be divided into three smaller groups. Harvest Time! aims to help students 1) recognize simple word problems on addition and subtraction of harvested produce, 2) perform addition of harvested produce as per instruction of the educational story game, and 3) perform subtractions of harvested produce as per instruction of the educational story game.
The materials for this activity includes drawings of various fruits and vegetables, Velcro tape and fabric board, and a big story book (original storybook that can be altered on instructions and word problem on addition and subtraction of farm harvests). With materials complete, the teacher can now group the students into three smaller groups and instruct each group of the mechanics of the educational story book. She can let the students explore the material and activity as a group and check their progress from time to time. After at least 8 minutes, ask the students to present their outputs as a group. Discuss the students’ answers and corrections as a class and read the correct and answered big story book to the class. Ask the students questions regarding the activity. In cases when a child has hyperactivity disorder, wherein he/she cannot stay still and loses focus easily, the teacher can place the child in an activity area away from the door and windows where people are frequently passing by. She can repeat instructions to the child one at a time or try to shorten instructions. If needed, I will allow the child to take a break from the activity.
The assessment of the activity can be done after the presentation when the teacher can give his/her corrections and explanations of the right answers. The students will also be assessed as the teacher checks each group’s progress. On the other hand, the reflection of the activity can happen when the teacher summarizes the story with the correct answers. After which, she can also ask if the students have understood the lesson. Students’ suggestions or opinions will also be welcomed.
References
Segal, J. & Smith M. “Teaching Students with ADD/ADHD.” Help Guide.Org. n.d. Web. July 9, 2016.
Connecticut Office of Early Childhood. “Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards,” 2014. PDF File.
