Students invent a new holiday that incorporates a special plant (or plants) as part of the celebration.

Standards (Microsoft Word Document)

Materials:

• Paper and pencils

Plants serve as food ingredients, decorations, and gifts in celebrations around the world. Ask students to list plants they associate with holiday traditions. Ask, How are the plants used? Why are they important to the holiday? What is your favorite holiday plant?

Exploration

Engage students’ creativity by asking them to invent a holiday. The only requirement for the new holiday is that plants be part of the tradition. Depending on their age, children can describe the holiday in writing or in pictures. Ask them to address these aspects of the occasion:

• In what season will your holiday occur? Why? How long does it last?


• What does your holiday celebrate?


• What plants are special to your holiday? Why did you choose those particular plants? How do people use them during this holiday?


• Describe other special traditions of your holiday such as foods, presents, songs, games, or family gatherings.

Making Connections

Branching Out

Grow plants for a special holiday gift or meal, or donate the plants to a local senior center or hospital.