Good Apples

by Phyllis Nuehring

OVERVIEW:
At the elementary level the ability to appreciate and accept the cultural differences of individuals is important as students find their place in society.
It is a time when individuals may strive for the security of sameness, fearful of appearing different or accepting those who don't fit their perception of normal.

GRADE LEVEL:
Elementary

GEOGRAPHIC THEMES/KEY IDEAS:
This lesson fits the geographic theme of Human Environment Interaction because it examines how people of various cultures relate to each other.

GEOGRAPHY STANDARDS:
Standard 4: The physical and human characteristics of places.
Standard 9: The characteristics, distribution, and migration of human populations on Earth's surface.
Standard 10: The characteristics, distribution, and complexities of Earth's cultural mosaics.
Standard 12: The processes, patterns, and functions of human settlement.

TIME:
Approximately 35 minutes

MATERIALS:
An apple for each student in the class (plus some extra). The apples should be various sizes, shapes, and colors. Choose apples with "distinguishing characteristics" such as leaves, scars, and small bruises.
You will also need a sharp knife.
An apple cut-out for each student

OBJECTIVES/GOALS:
As a result of this activity the students will:
1 . Understand that cultural differences among people have a positive value to society.
2. Understand that such differences add to the quality, interest, and value of our lives.
3. Realize that although we are different, we have many things in common.

PROCEDURE FOR TEACHING THE LESSON:
1. Tell your students that they will be spending some time finding out about how people are the same and how they are different.
2. Put apples out on a table and have each student in the class choose an apple.
3. Tell them to get to know their apple very well. Suggest that they look for special characteristics of their apple.
4. Have students make up a story about their apple and share it with a neighbor. Time could be allowed to share the stories with the rest of the class.
5. Have the student return the apples to the table. Mix up the apples and have the students return to find their original apple.
6. When the students have returned to their seats, ask them how they knew which apple was theirs (color, size, shape, special features).
7. Ask how this could relate to people. Make a list of how people are different. Discuss why this is important.
8. Make a list of how people are the same. Discuss why this is important. (Lists can be done in cooperative groups and then shared with the entire class. |
9. Read the book, People, by Peter Spier to give the students a literature connection to the story.

EXTENDING THE LESSON:
Summarize the importance of individual differences and similarities in people.
Suggest that one way all people are similar is that they have a star inside them (something special that makes them shine, and that they especially like about themselves), just like each apple has a star inside it.
Cut the apple in half. Let each child see the star inside the apple. Pass out apple and shining star cutouts. Have each child draw a picture of themselves on their star and glue it to the center of the apple.
Have them write 5 things that they feel makes them special at the points of the star.
Create a "GOOD APPLE" bulletin board with the apples so students can share what makes them special

EVALUATION/ASSESSMENT:
I would use an immediate observation check to record participation by the students.
I would use the finished bulletin board product to check for understanding.

RESOURCES:
Spier, P., People, New York: Trumpet Club, 1080.