When introducing a new topic it's always a good idea to find out what kids already know. This can be done with a KWL chart. Begin with what students Know, move on to what they Want to know and finish by filling in what they have Learned. Read aloud fiction and nonfiction books on the topic, and have students listen for answers to their questions and to confirm what they already know. Writing and drawing in response to what they have learned is a great way to check for understanding.
Kindergartners are learning about how communities work and the jobs that people do. Have students compare and contrast ranches to traditional farms using a Venn diagram. This will help them focus in on important characteristics of both. Videos showing ranchers at work will bring this to life for kindergartners. Students can also act out some important tasks of ranchers such as lassoing horses or cattle. If possible have some hats and vests for students to wear.
In kindergarten, students learn about different kinds of animals. When learning about a ranch students will have the opportunity to learn about parents and babies. They will learn what animals need to survive and how ranchers make sure these needs are met. This is a great time to bring in photographs and videos. If possible, taking a field trip to a farm with cattle or horses would give students a great first hand look at these animals and get to hear from experts about their care.
Kindergartners thrive with hands-on learning. Creating centers that students can explore independently or with guidance is a powerful way to extend learning. One idea is to have small figures of cattle, horses and people for students to act out what they have been learning. For art, have students create hay stack art work by gluing hay onto construction paper and drawing a ranch scene. Cows and horses can be created out of paper bags or paper plates using paint and cut-out construction paper pieces. For math, use ranch-themed items for counting or problem solving.