Using Science to Make Food and Activity Decisions

Students learn how an understanding of biology, built environment, and personal behaviors impact weight and health. Students collect data about the world around them and their own eating and physical activity behaviors to understand their choices, take control, and make positive changes. The module's driving question — How can we use scientific evidence to help us make healthful food and activity choices? — frames students' investigations of how the human body works and how food and activity play a crucial role in our well-being — critical ideas in science. Students engage in hands-on investigations of "dynamic equilibrium" — energy intake and expenditure. They explore food preference, their food environment, lifestyle-related diseases, and more. Students examine their personal food choices and use scientific reasoning to analyze what they find out. Finally, they apply what they have learned by making personal decisions related to their diet, physical activity, and overall health.

The Revised 2nd edition has been updated to follow the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It also includes teacher requested activities in a readers theater format and a new design to allow teachers to customize the curriculum to suit their unique classroom needs.

Teacher Testimony: “The hands-on activities allowed me to connect with my entire class. It was incredible to see the shift in their perception of healthy eating and the increased confidence in their ability to make healthier choices.”

Student Testimony: “I liked when we did experiments to show what happens to different parts of the body if you were not healthy. It also gave me an organized way to make healthy food choices.” – Joseph, age 11

View a sample lesson plan called "Keeping the Flow."

Product Details

• Recommended for grades 6-8
• 288 pages
• Paperback

All of KidsGardening curriculum is sold through Gardener's Supply Company.

KidsGardening Publications are sold through Gardeners Supply Company. Schools and educational institutions can receive a 25% discount off the regular retail price for items from Gardener’s Supply (discount cannot be applied on top of other discounts). To take advantage of this discount, you must contact Stephanie Gueldner by email or at 802-861-7127 or 888-560-1037. Please mention source code KGO2021.