Scripture: Genesis 3-4
Learning Objectives:
- Students will review the story of the first sins, focusing especially on the mentions of gardens and growing food
- Students will learn ways of preventing weeds from growing in gardens without using chemicals
- Students will experiment with different methods of weed prevention to see which ones work well
Guiding Question: What is the best way for preventing weeds from growing in gardens without using chemicals?
Materials: disposable pans of dirt with grass or weeds growing in them, hoe, mulch, landscape fabric, plastic sheeting, vinegar, water, rubbing alcohol
Procedure: Review the story of the first sins, focusing especially on the mentions of gardens and growing food. Discuss with students what made growing food difficult outside of the garden of Eden. Mention that one thing that makes growing food more difficult is weeds. Explain to students that weeds can prevent food plants from growing well. Ask students for ideas of ways to prevent weeds from growing or to kill weeds without using harsh chemicals. Allow students to experiment with the various materials and record what happens to the “weeds” over the course of several days. Which ones worked the best? (Note:1-5 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol mixed in 1 quart of water is supposed to kill weeds. Vinegar can be used undiluted. Both rubbing alcohol and vinegar can be dangerous if not used properly. Please make sure students follow all possible safety procedures.)
Additional Question: What are the advantages and disadvantages of using chemical versus using natural methods of weed prevention and weed killing?
Supplemental Activity: Have students research the pros and cons of using chemical versus natural methods of weed prevention and weed killing. Have them share their findings with local farmers or others who grow food.