Apples are a popular topic in first-grade classrooms, and for good reason! They’re relatable, tasty, and full of educational opportunities. In this post, we’ll explore various activities to help students learn about apples, label them, and dive into some fun facts through research. From apple crafts to apple tasting, you’ll find everything you need to make apples a favorite lesson in your classroom! Today i am sharing 5 of my favorite apple activities.
Parts of an Apple Craft
One of the best ways to kick off an apple-themed lesson is by introducing students to the anatomy of an apple. This is where a simple apple craft can help bring the learning experience to life.This craft helps kids visualize and understand the different parts of an apple while getting their creative energy flowing. It’s a hands-on way to reinforce vocabulary and basic biology in an age-appropriate manner.
Apple Life Cycle
Teaching the apple life cycle to students can be a fun and engaging way to introduce them to basic science concepts. I like to read Apples by Gail Gibbons. Then we put the photographs in order in a pocket chart. Finally, the kids can complete the graphic organizer on their own or by looking at the pocket chart.
Johnny Appleseed
Johnny Appleseed, whose real name was John Chapman, is a legendary figure tied to apple history. His story can be a fun way for first graders to learn about the historical side of apples. By turning Johnny Appleseed into a research project, students can explore both history and apples at the same time. By researching Johnny Appleseed, students will learn how apples became so widespread in America and why this unique historical figure is remembered even today. This craft is easy to prep. You can do it as a single sheet or you can add multiple apples on top and staple it to make it into a book. You can get this craft here.
Apple Tasting
One of the most exciting parts of an apple lesson is tasting the different varieties of apples. Apple tasting is a perfect sensory activity that engages young learners and allows them to compare flavors, textures, and colors. Here’s how to organize a successful apple tasting event:
- Various apples – red, yellow, and or green- cut into bite suze pieces
- Apple Sause
- Apple Juice or Apple Cider
- Apple Pie cut up
After we tried the apples, students voted for their favorite apple. You can the parts to make this FREE anchor chart here.
Apple Research
For a bit of academic learning, guide students in simple research on apples. Help them learn where apples come from, how they grow, and even different types of apples that exist around the world. Depending on their reading level, this could involve picture books, videos, or teacher-led discussions.
- Research Topics:
- How apples grow: Teach students the apple life cycle—starting from a seed to a tree, to a flower, and finally to a fruit.
- Different types of apples: Introduce the idea that apples come in various colors and flavors.
- Where apples come from: Explain that apples grow on trees in orchards, and that some apples come from far away countries.
By incorporating fun facts into your research lessons, such as how many pounds of apples are grown each year in the U.S. or how apple trees need bees to pollinate, you’ll keep the students interested and eager to learn more. You can find these Apple Activities HERE.
Apple Math
Finally, have some fun by incorporating some apple math. I love using math crafts. They are a great way to work on listening and following directions and fine motor skills, while reinforcing math skills. This one focuses on decomposing 10. You can get this Apple craft, plus three more Fall Math Crafts HERE.
Finally, today, I am sharing my latest bulletin board. This year, i am determined to change my bulletin board every month. This is my September bulletin board. What do you think? You can buy it here.
