Teacher Process
Before beginning this WebQuest, you will need:
- A copy of the book Apples, Apples, Apples to read to the students. Wallace, Nancy Elizabeth. (2000). Apples, Apples, Apples. New York, NY: Winslow Press.
- One copy for each student of the apple variety chart, click here.
- Enough apples from the six varieties to give each student one piece to taste. One apple should yield approximately eight pieces. For example, a class of 20 students would need three apples of each variety.
Varieties: Gala, Granny Smith, Rome, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, and Braeburn
- Three sheets of copy paper per student folded in the middle and stapled to form a book of six pages.
- Individual computers for each student unless working in groups.
As a teacher it is up to you to decide how you would like to structure the class. You may decide to have each student work on their WebQuest individually or you may choose to have them work in groups. This can be particularly good for students who do not read as well. A designated group reader or adult volunteer/aide can read the WebQuest instructions for their group and then students can work together to complete the chart.
The actual time for the WebQuest will vary depending on how quickly the students complete the activities. In general, a teacher should allow a minimum of at least 1 1/2 to 2 hours to complete this webquest. It is recommended that the WebQuest be scheduled in the morning to allow sufficient time to complete and to allow time for additional activities if desired.
Other suggestions for activities that build on this WebQuest includes:
- After learning about the different varieties of apples, make a bulletin board with a pre-cut tree. Provide students with pre-cut apples and have them write a fact about the apples on the pre-cut apple that corresponds to a particular variety. Have them then paste the apples on the tree.
- Using uniform baskets, place varieties of apples in each basket and have students estimate the number of apples in each basket. Have the students record their estimations. Then have the students take the apples out of the basket and record the number of apple varieties in each basket. See who comes the closest to the estimation of the apples in the basket.
- Using the recipe in the book Apples, Apples, Apples make Minna's applesauce for your class. Students need to determine in advance, however, which apple variety will make the best applesauce. The process for making the applesauce should take about 30 minutes. Serve to the class and enjoy.
- If possible arrange to visit an actual apple orchard where students can pick their favorite apples.