Second grade teachers across Cleveland County integrate the 4-H Classroom Embryology Project into their curriculum to engage students in learning about the science of life.

N.C. Cooperative Extension supports these teachers by securing fertilized eggs (courtesy of project partner Case Farms), loaning incubators, brooder boxes and supplies, making classroom teaching visits, fielding questions, and finding farm placements for the newly hatched chicks.

Three elementary schools (Bellwood, Union Elementary, and Fallston) participated in the 4-H Classroom Embryology Project during Fall 2023. More than 280 children learned about the avian life cycle in real time by incubating chicken eggs. The students received instruction on what an incubator is and how it works. They also learned how to monitor the incubator's temperature and humidity and the importance of turning eggs daily during the incubation process. The classrooms were buzzing with excitement each time Cleveland County 4-H Agent Carey Stewart walked through the door. She taught the students about candling an egg beginning on day 14 in order to observe the growth and development of the embryo inside.

Teachers were provided embryology curriculum, information packets containing student worksheets, and ongoing email and telephone support throughout the 3-week project. Offered each Spring and Fall, the 4-H Classroom Embryology Project is favorite program of teachers and a highlight or the school year for their students.