Farm
Pen Pals
Has e-mail killed the art of letter writing -- or is the skill still flourishing via phone lines and cable? Whatever your opinion, there's no doubt that letter writing is an essential skill that incorporates and builds upon many other language skills. With the right motivation, lessons that engage students and emphasize the practical -- letter writing can be a source of learning and an opportunity for classroom fun!
Dear Oklahoma Educator,
This letter is to introduce the Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Farm Pen Pals program. Farm Pen Pals is an excellent opportunity to share the rich traditions of Oklahoma agriculture with your students. AITC is team-teaching with Oklahoma farmers and ranchers who are actively involved in agriculture. These agriculturists are willing to share their experiences and expertise with youth who do not typically have the opportunity to learn about OklahomaÕs agricultural industry. Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to correspond via the Farm Pen Pals program and to teach beyond the walls of your classroom. Not only will students involved in this project improve their writing skills, they will make a personal connection with a family involved in farming and/or ranching.
Step 1. Read the letter from the Oklahoma farmer provided in the Farm Pen Pal Packet.
Step 2. Generate interest in corresponding with a farmer.
Step 3. Teach the parts of a letter: heading, greeting, body, closure and signature.
Step 4. Students write letter to Oklahoma Farm Pen Pal. (name and address provided).
Farm Pen Pal Packet includes:
Letter from an Oklahoma farmer
The address of an Oklahoma AITC Pen Pal farmer
Suggested point scale for assessement
Letter-writing lesson from National Endowment for the Humanities
If you have any questions, please contact Jamey Allen, Dana Bessinger or Judy Ferrell.