In this lesson, students conduct a taste test of asparagus and create advertisements of asparagus to persuade other students to try it.
Through an experiment, a marketing project, readings, and class discussions, students develop an appreciation for the vegetable and a basic understanding of persuasive techniques.
Teaching Tips
Positives
The lesson plan also includes additional resources, assessment questions, and readings on the history of asparagus, how asparagus grows, and its health benefits. and a step-by-step guide on preparing and conducting the taste test and marketing project.
Students are introduced to new vocabulary, including terms like advertisement, perennial, and rhizome.
Additional Prerequisites
A complete list of necessary materials can be found in the lesson plan.
Copies of the handouts can be provided to each student or to groups or can be projected onto a screen for the whole class.
Although the activity is focused on asparagus, if it is not accessible, other vegetables, like green beans, can be used.
Differentiation
This resource can be used as an introduction to food systems and the benefits of plant-based diets.
Have students consider how advertising can be used to promote sustainability and health.
As a follow-up activity, students can post their ads around the school and poll other students about which ad would persuade them most to eat asparagus.
Scientist Notes
This resource has students taste test asparagus and to develop ads for it. It also covers some history and cultivation of asparagus. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Standards
College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Standards
Dimension 2: Economics
D2.Eco.1.3-5 Compare the benefits and costs of individual choices.
Common Core English Language Arts Standards (CCSS.ELA)
Writing (K-12)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.3.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.3.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.7 Conduct short research projects that build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.7 Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.
National Health Education Standards
Standard 2: Students will analyze the influence of family, peers, culture, media, technology, and other factors on health behaviors.
2.5.3 Identify how peers can influence healthy and unhealthy behaviors.
Standard 5: Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision-making skills to enhance health.
5.5.3 List healthy options to health-related issues or problems.
