Our Mooo-velous Cow: Cultivating Curiosity in Science, Math, and Literacy

Wednesday, July 1, 2026 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM · 1 hr. 30 min. (America/New_York)
Poster
Early Childhood/Elementary

Information

The Adopt a Cow program connects students to agriculture by allowing classrooms to “adopt” a real calf and follow its growth through photos, videos, and updates. It integrates science, math, and literacy while fostering agricultural awareness, global perspectives, and curiosity about where food comes from in engaging, authentic ways.
Role Based Tracks
Teachers
Grade Level
PK-2
Transformational Learning Principles
Cultivate BelongingSpark Curiosity
ISTE Standards
Students: Empowered Learner: Set learning goals, develop strategies leveraging technology to achieve them and reflect on the learning process to improve learning outcomes.
Delivery/Output
In Person
Subject
Interdisciplinary (STEM/STEAM)
Skill Level
Beginner
Outline
Poster Presentation Outline – Adopt a Cow Program 1. Title Section Professional, engaging title (e.g., “Adopt a Cow: Connecting Classrooms to Agriculture”) Your name, school/district, and contact info 2. Introduction / Program Overview What is the Adopt a Cow program? Free virtual agricultural experience for students Students follow the life of a calf, meet farmers, and connect to food systems 3. Purpose & Goals Increase agricultural literacy Build connections between students and real-world farming Promote curiosity, empathy, and responsible citizenship 4. Learning Connections Ties to science (life cycles, ecosystems, sustainability) ELA (journaling, naming contest, persuasive writing) Math (growth charts, data tracking, measurement) Technology & ISTE Standards (virtual updates, digital storytelling) 5. Inclusivity & Perspectives How agriculture impacts diverse communities Encourages respect for multiple perspectives on food, culture, and environment Opportunities for students to share their family traditions and experiences 6. Student Engagement Examples Naming contest for the calf Weekly updates with photos/videos Classroom discussions, projects, and reflections Cross-curricular connections 7. Outcomes / Impact Students develop real-world understanding of food systems Strengthened STEM and literacy skills Increased engagement and curiosity Builds empathy and connection to global perspectives 8. Resources for Teachers Free Discover Dairy curriculum Lesson plans, activities, and digital tools How to sign up and implement easily 9. Conclusion / Takeaway Adopt a Cow transforms agriculture into a hands-on, meaningful classroom experience Encourages transformational learning beyond textbooks QR code/link to resources
Supporting research
https://www.discoverdairy.com/
Audience
Teacher
Attendee Devices
Devices not needed
Presenter Type
ISTE Certified Educator

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