Explore Corn
Corn Field Scouting
Grade Levels: Middle School,High School
Farmers utilize field scouting as a sure-fire way to assess their crops in real-time. Surveying their field allows them to see the development of their crops to guarantee they are at the predicted growth stage based on the number of accumulated growing degree days. Farmers are also able to observe what types of pests are infesting their crops, what nutrients they are lacking, any diseases spreading throughout the field, the types of weeds competing for resources and the damage that was done after a severe weather event. From this analysis, farmers are able to immediately intervene and make adjustments to the amount of fertilizer, pesticides and/or herbicides needed in order to ensure the greatest performance of their crop.
The key to scouting is to have a random, yet methodical technique in observing the field. This is important so as to receive the most accurate representation of the conditions found within the corn crop. Students will utilize this surveying technique to determine the health of the field. This will be done by first learning the five classification types that hinder plant production – pests, disease, weeds, nutrition and weather damage – and the causes of each. There are telltale signs that can be observed with practice and a careful eye. Students will apply that knowledge in the field then finish by creating and presenting a scouting report to their peers.
Teaching the Lesson
- Kansas College and Career Ready Standards
- Learning Objectives
- Materials
- Safety Considerations
- Procedure for Instructions
- Background Information
- Classroom Discussion
- Procedure for Lab
- Teacher Resources
- Lab Analysis
- Reflection and Conclusion
- Assessments
- Science and Agriculture Careers
- Sources
- Disclaimer
About Kansas Corn STEM
Investing in Kansas teachers and students is a priority for the Kansas Corn Commission. We are committed to providing materials and training to support STEM education while fostering an understanding of how corn farming and agriculture fit into our daily lives. Professional development workshops are offered to teachers seeking to expand their knowledge and inquiry-based teaching skills. Workshop participants receive free lab supplies needed for the lessons.
Workshop InfoThis lesson is the work product of the Kansas Corn Commission. Our lessons are written in collaboration with Kansas teachers for use in the classroom. Teachers may copy and share this curriculum. Use of this product for commercial or promotional use is prohibited without express permission of Kansas Corn.
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