Companion Resources

Dive into the great big water cycle story! The same water has been falling as raindrops for billions of years. It travels around our planet again and again, from raindrops into rivers, and from seas to water vapor in mist and clouds. The water on Earth is in glaciers, rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs. It is used by plants, humans, and animals. Follow the journey of a young girl and boy as they float, splash, and slide through the incredible water cycle story. The Great Big Water Cycle Adventure shows the incredible story of water in all its forms, from grey storm clouds to rushing waterfalls, calm lakes, and shining icy glaciers.

Of all the tree's in Grandpa's orchard, one tree is his favorite—a pecan tree, planted for his granddaughter on the day she was born. As the seasons change, the leaves unfurl and fall again while Grandpa tenderly cares for each tree in his orchard. Sometimes they need pruning, sometimes they need feeding. They all need harvesting, and the granddaughter loves watching the tractor hug the trees' trunks and shake until the leaves and twigs and pecans rain down. But not the child's tree—her tree is special. It is not a part of the orchard. It's just for the two of them and all the ways their relationship grows as they care for this special tree: tending its roots, harvesting its pecan treasures, and creating something delicious together.

Use a demonstration with dominos to explore the complexity of global food supply chains that connect the production and consumption of agricultural products. This kit includes a set of colorful domino blocks, descriptive stickers to explore factors that impact the success or failure of the food supply chain, and cards describing examples of events or circumstances that can break the food supply chain.

Tired of higher food prices? The food industry is focusing on tighter cost controls to hold the line against future increases. But you might be surprised to see what worries food executives most. Explore the importance of transportation in the food supply chain using this article from Dirt to Dinner.

Grains are hearty, wholesome, and healthy. Learn about how MyPlate helps kids make great food choices every day, including grains.

Ag Challenge Task Cards can be used during soft/STEM start times, as a brain break, or as a fast finisher activity. Students simply read the cards and draw, build, or discuss the solution to an agricultural industry problem. This resource was developed by 2022 Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award winner, Meaghan Porritt.

Learn more about food grown in all 50 states in this digital magazine. Each page includes top agricultural states, crop life cycles, fun facts, special days, and more. Start a conversation about where food comes from.

This three-page informational sheet describes the process of how berries are grown and harvested, how they get from the farm to the store, and nutrition facts. Words and graphics are used to portray this information for strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Print your own or order a set of 30" x 8" printed charts from agclassroomstore.com.

Maps that show the historical origins of major agricultural crops before they were domesticated across the globe as well as graphics representing current global producers of common commodities.

Join Pirate Pearl and her parrot Petunia as they learn how potatoes are planted, grown, and harvested in this hilarious picture book about food and friendship. Pirate Pearl and her parrot Petunia are HUNGRY, and after they make the hardtack biscuits walk the plank, they go in search of a perfect provision for their next sea voyage. Where do they end up? On Farmer Fay's potato farm! Farmer Fay shows Pirate Pearl how potatoes grow on the farm and how potatoes can be cooked into many different delicious potato recipes. Pirate Pearl and Petunia not only gain an understanding of farming but also a new friendship with Farmer Fay! Back matter is packed with potato facts, information on growing your own potatoes, and recipes.

When Polly's father goes overseas to fight in World War I, her whole world changes. Though the war is in Europe, its effects are felt on American soil. There are food, fuel, and other supply shortages everywhere. Even something as simple and enjoyable as a family Sunday car ride isn't possible anymore. Everyone must do their part to help the war effort. Victory gardens are planted and scrap metal is collected. "It's the biggest event in our history. And it involves every single adult, every single boy, and every single girl," says Polly's teacher. As Polly struggles to make sense of the war, she wonders how she can contribute. When the government puts out a notice requesting peach pits to be used in gas mask filters, Polly knows how she can help.

Fun animal farmers show readers how their crops are planted and harvested using tractors, trailers, plows, and other farm machines.