How do apples grow?

LESSON 4

Children explore how apples grow and create representations of an apple tree's seasonal stages using play dough.

The book, “How Do Apples Grow?” by Jill McDonald or “The Apple Pie Tree,” by Zoe Hall
Tree printable (you will need 4 trees, one for each season)
Sheet protector or laminator
Playdough

Facilitate a read aloud of a story about apple growth and guide children in engaging with the story's illustrations.
Lead a discussion to help children reflect on their comprehension of apple growth stages and the impact of changing seasons.
Provide appropriate materials and support children in creating play dough apple tree representations for each season.
Promote fine motor skill development and artistic expression while assisting children in crafting playdough apple trees.

Children listen to a story about apple growth and engage with the illustrations.
Children discuss their understanding of how apples grow and the different stages of an apple tree's life cycle.
Children participate in hands-on learning by creating representations of an apple tree for each season using play dough and trees.
Children explore the concept of changing seasons and discuss anticipated autumn activities.
Children develop creativity and fine motor skills while constructing play dough apple trees.

Collect and Connect

Apples, Oh, Apples

Apples, oh, apples

Rosy and round,

Fall and tumble,

All over the ground.

Don’t roll too far,

And hide your bright face.

For in my basket,

I will find you a place.

Begin this activity by finding a comfortable place to sit down and read the story together. Before reading, ask if they know how apples grow, encouraging them to share their thoughts. Tell them that you will be reading a story to learn more about the process of apple growth. Engage in the story together, pausing on each page to appreciate the illustrations and engage with the story.
After reading, discuss new knowledge about how apples grow. Reflect on the distinct stages an apple tree undergoes throughout the changing seasons. Tell your child that you will be creating representations of the apple tree's various stages throughout the seasons.
Provide your child with the necessary materials, including trees and play dough, and assist them in constructing an apple tree for each of the four seasons. As you create, talk about the changing seasons and the activities you both are looking forward to enjoying this autumn.