CUTTING UP WITH CARROTS
Classroom Activities
Taste Testing
Good nutrition and physical
activity is vital to a growing mind
and body. Giving students the
opportunity to taste test healthy
foods exposes them to options
they may not have known before.
What to do:
- Give each student a slice of a
large carrot and a baby carrot.
- Allow the students time to
observe the two pieces of carrot,
recording how they look, feel and
smell.
- Have students taste their
carrots and record what they
thought. Did they like the taste
and/or texture? Did they like the
slice of the large carrot or baby
carrot? Have them share their
findings with the class.
Integrating Ideas
Language Arts:
- After students have tasted the
carrot, have them create an
Acrostic poem using the word
carrot.
Health:
- Have students research the
health benefits of carrots and
create a recipe using carrots.
Did you know?
The world’s largest carrot was
grown in Palmer, Alaska in 1998
by John Evans and weighed
19lbs.
A Bit about Carrots
The carrot dates all the way back
to ancient times. The Romans
grew both purple and white
carrots. Starting in the 10th
century, carrots were cultivated
in the Middle East and it was not
until the 15th century that they
were cultivated in England.
Currently there are two types of
carrots in the world. The Eastern
carrot is from Central Asia, or
modern day Afghanistan, it is
purple or yellow in color. The
Western carrot is originally from
the Netherlands and is generally
orange in color; however, there
A well balanced diet
Ensure you are eating a variety of foods including
carbohydrates. Here’s why:

They give you energy.

They can be stored as energy to be used later.

They are a good source of vitamins, minerals & fiber.

They provide sweetness and texture to food.
Make sure you are making healthy carbohydrate choices
by eating whole grains, fruits & root vegetables.
are white, yellow, red and purple
varieties in the west as well.
Researchers at Texas A&M have
produced a carrot with purple skin
and orange flesh, which is
thought to help prevent cancer.
Healthy facts

Carrots are high in vitamin A, which helps to
maintain eye sight.

Carrots are rich in antioxidants, which are vital in
fighting cancer.

The beta-carotene in carrots help to provide
protection against heart disease.

Foods like carrots that are rich in carotenoids help
regulate blood sugar.
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