Varied+Nutrition

Group members: Kim Annear, Ante Berkovic, Liam Quinn. Topic: Varied Nutrition Year level: Year 4. Lesson Plans >>Task >>Resources We choose to look at the topic 'Varied Nutrition' for our authentic learning environment task. The significance of teaching children healthy eating is clear, particularly in a contemporary society where obesity and food related health decline are on the rise. In utilising the school curriculum, namely 'Middle Childhood: Health and Physical Education- Integrated Scope and Sequence', and effectively using technology and other methods to create an authentic learning environment, the students will be engaged and subsequently learn. Within this topic we incorporated two underlying topic points: 'Healthy food plate' and 'What affects eating habits?' We decided upon year 4 students as specific age group to teach both for level of nutrition knowledge and lesson plan ideas, but also an acceptable age for establishing healthy eating habits throughout life. In relation to these points we devised a number of lesson plans that are authentic in their practical and engaging approach.
 * __Introduction__**

It is well documented that eating habits established at an early age provide a foundation for eating habits throughout life. The importance of teaching healthy eating to primary school children then, is clear. If informed healthy eating habits can be established at a young age, this will encourage healthy eating as an adult. There is a strong recognition of the link between chronic disease and diet. It costs the health care system an estimated $830 million a year for diseases related to inactivity and over-consumption of food. As briefly outlined in the introduction, obesity is an ever increasing problem among Australians. An estimated 20-25% of Australian children were either overweight or obese between 1985 and 1997, the number of school children who are obese has since tripled, and those that are overweight doubled. Even among children who are not considered overweight, unhealthy eating habits particularly with regards to 'fast food' consumption is an obstacle that needs to be corrected.
 * __Background__**

When recognising these issues, the importance of teaching healthy eating habits to children at a young age is clear. By doing so in an authentic learning environment, involving technology and practical lesson plans, interest and engagement among students can be established, making learning meaningful.

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