It’s all in the touch: Plant Biology Curriculum for grades 5 – 8 (ages 10 – 13)

The All In the Touch curriculum was developed by Dr. Peggy G. Lemaux and her assistant, Science Communication Specialist Ms. Barbara Alonso at the University of California, Berkeley with funding from the American Society of Plant Biologists (http://aspb.org ). Dr. Cristina Reynaga-Pena also contributed to the initial development of the curriculum.

The objective of this curriculum is to encourage conceptual understanding of plant diversity, cell structure and function through tactile exploration of these topics. It has been recognized that human senses of touch, smell and taste are effective and meaningful ways of educational engagement. Focusing on a tactile approach to learning reinforces scientific concepts in a more relatable and durable way. The curriculum can be used in standard classrooms, afterschool programs and summer camps.

The lesson materials are free to download from http://ucbiotech.org/allinthetouch/about/index.html