Adopt A Cow: Beef Education​ for 3-5 Grade
4-H and Youth Programming
Madison Kovarna
Watertown
Abstract
The general population is becoming further removed from agriculture, with fewer people having direct tie to this industry. Beef cattle inventory in South Dakota is at 1.4 million head as of Jan. 2025 (USDA NASS) while the human population is 924,669 (2024 US Census). Even given this, many residents are unfamiliar with how beef makes it to their plates. To address these concerns, the “Adopt-A-Cow” curriculum was developed. This 6 lesson curriculum engages elementary-age youth in learning about animal agriculture through hands-on activities and by connecting youth virtually with real South Dakota animals. Students follow their “adopted” cow and calf throughout the school year while they learn about the South Dakota beef and dairy industries. The Adopt-A-Cow program is an excellent opportunity for students to learn how food gets from farm to fork while having fun. Lessons and video content are designed to meet various South Dakota education standards and combine a variety of learning strategies including video and hands-on activities. Most lessons also have extended learning opportunities that allow classrooms to dive deeper into the topic as time allows. The 6 lesson curriculum contains materials on beef production, history, nutrition, and the beef industry. The curriculum was piloted in seven school districts, reaching 230 youth in the Fall of 2024. This curriculum provides a comprehensive, engaging approach to beef education, offering bonus materials like virtual escape rooms, a board game, and children’s book recommendations.
Authors: Madison Kovarna, Christine Wood
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Madison Kovarna Beef Nutrition Field Specialist , South Dakota State University Extension, South Dakota, 57201
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Christine Wood 4-H STEM Field Specialist, South Dakota State University Extension, South Dakota, 57106