Apples

Objectives:
a) using apple-scented playdough, develop fine motor skills by forming balls (apples)
b) listen and follow directions in a song
c) counting 1-5 and basic subtraction by taking one away
d) learn more about apples

Points to Remember:
1. Make your playdough a few hours before you begin the lesson so it has time to cool
2. You do not have to make your own playdough, use store-bought playdough and add some spices if you'd like
3. Songs may be hard for a hearing impaired child, sing slowly!

Lesson:
1. Read a book about apples. We have a scholastic book called, Apples. It has very simple sentences that discuss how apples grow and the different ways we can enjoy apples.

2. Make apples from apple-scented playdough. I purchased some silk leaves to stick into the tops of the apples.

3. Sing an apple song such as:

"Five little apples lying on the floor, Brooke takes one and that leaves 4

Four little apples hanging on the tree, Brooke takes one and that leaves 3

Three little apples, I know what to do! Brooke puts on in her pocket and that leaves 2

Two little apples sitting in the sun, Brooke picks one and that leaves 1

One little apple waiting all alone, Brooke will pick it up and take it home."

Below is a video of the first time Brooke heard the song. I wanted to see if she could follow the directions in a song. She did great.

4. Spend the week, singing the apple song. Soon your child will be singing with you! You do not need to use the playdough each time you sing; try using real apples, plastic apples, or just your 5 fingers.

Modifications:

1. Try other apple songs. Do an internet search and you are sure to find some.

2. We used our foam apples to do some counting. Label 6 cups with the numbers 1-6. Show your child how to put one apple in the cup with the #1 on it; put 2 apples in the #2 cup, put 3 apples in the #3 cup, etc. This helps with one-to-one number correspondence.

3. Use this song with acorns, pinecones or other Fall-realted items.