Lesson:Horse Talk(3 lessons)

Subject Matter Area(s): Science &Agriculture

Grades: 3-4

Standards: Life Science-Characteristics of Living Organisms SC2.3.1.c: Identify external parts of plants and animals. Mathematics-MA 0.2.5.c Measurements: Students will measure using nonstandard units and time. MA 1.2.5.e: Measure length using inches

Life Skills: To increase knowledge of horses, their breeds, colors and marking. Improve problem-solving, decision making and leadership skills.

Careers:Some careers youth might be interested in are Equine Science, Animal Science, and Veterinary Science.

Description of Activity:Youth will be provided with handouts the presentation. The learner will have the opportunity to identify breeds, colors and markings throughout the PowerPoint presentation. Follow up with a Jeopardy game PowerPoint.

Time Involved:Max of 30 minutes for each lesson

Required Materials:PowerPoint, LCD projector, handouts

What is the lesson objective?

The Learner will be able to measure a horses height in hands.

The Learner will be able to identify the common horse breeds.

The Learner will be able to identify correct markings of horses.

The Learner will be able to identify common colors of horses.

Lesson Outcome:

Youth will develop positive attitudes and interest regarding local agriculture.

Anticipatory Set:

Ask the questions: Who owns a horse? Whose family own horses? Who has ever ridden a horse? Have you ever touched a horse? Briefly introduce the teacher’s personal background with horses.

Direct instruction: Lecture the PowerPoint presentation. Allow for discussion over topics of interest. Have students write down answers to questions on handouts as you go through PowerPoint. Finish up with Jeopardy Game.

Check for Understanding: During the quiz portion have the students write down their answers and then ask individuals for their response. Also can check for understanding when playing the jeopardy game.

Guided Practice: This is done with the power point presentation. The student will have a hand out of the presentation, as well as an answer sheet to be turned in at the end of class.

Independent Practice:There is no formal independent practice, however looking over the material is highly recommended.

Debriefing Questions for Day of lesson:

  • Awareness: Did you know it is illegal to slaughter horse in the U.S.? What do you do with sick animals? (Call local vet, look for treatment options including humane treatment such as euthanize.)
  • Attitude: What countries still use horses for work? What are horses used for in
    Nebraska? What are the responsibilities involved and the expenses? Transportation, feed, pasture, etc.
  • Application: Measurements-How can I use my hands to measure other items?