Students at Brandywine Elementary School had a special opportunity to learn more about agriculture and science through a visit from the West Virginia Farm Bureau Mobile Agriculture Lab.
Sept. 8-11, students in every class at the school had the opportunity to visit the agriculture lab and participate in educational activities designed to introduce them to different aspects of agriculture, science and the natural world.
The visit offered something for students of all ages. Some classes participated in information sessions, while others took part in hands-on experiments that allowed them to see science in action.
One of the experiments enjoyed by the students in the upper grades involved extracting DNA from strawberries. The students were able to follow the process of breaking down the strawberry and separating the DNA, giving them a firsthand look at something they normally only encounter in a textbook or classroom discussion.
The younger students learned about honeybees and the important role they play in agriculture. They learned about the different members of a bee colony, including the queen, drones and worker bees, and how each has a specific role in keeping the colony functioning.
Students were also introduced to some fascinating facts about honeybees, including the number of eyes they have and how their bodies and behaviors help them perform their jobs. Additionally, students learned about the many products made with honey, including personal care products, health and wellness items and home products, such as candles and wood care materials.
The agriculture lab provided students with more than just an opportunity to learn facts. The hands-on activities allowed them to ask questions, make observations and experience science and agriculture in a way that was both educational and fun.
Programs such as the West Virginia Farm Bureau Agriculture Lab help students better understand where food comes from, the importance of agriculture and the science behind many of the things they encounter in everyday life.
For the students, it was a week of learning that showed that agriculture isn’t just something that happens on a farm — it is closely connected to science, nature, food and everyone’s everyday lives.
Brandywine Elementary staff appreciates the West Virginia Farm Bureau for bringing the agriculture lab to the school and giving students an opportunity to learn, explore and discover through hands-on experiences.
