The Kansas Beef Council and Kansas Corn Commission have partnered to provide educational materials to those teaching science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in the 6th through 12th grades. These checkoff-funded classroom materials highlight the connection between science and agriculture. The goal is to promote greater agricultural literacy among tomorrow’s scientists and to create a heightened awareness of careers in the industry.
A group of 24 6th grade students in Olathe recently helped test the new Breakout EDU curriculum. Through the interactive experience, students learned about the common breeds of cattle, the beef lifecycle, products made from beef, beef cuts and facts about grain- and grass-finished beef.
The curriculum creates general awareness that can lead to more in-depth investigations and activities that keep the agriculture conversation going with middle school and high school students.