1. 4-H Science & Agriculture in Houston ISD
By: Dr. Monty Dozier – Regional Program Leader
Cory Hundl – 4-H Program Specialist

2. 4-H Discover Science Method Research Poster

3. What is DSM?
Allows youth the opportunity to apply the scientific method to the subject matter they have learned through their 4-H projects.
Is framed in principles of science, engineering, and technology (S.E.T.).

4. Components of the DSM Poster
Construct a poster
Write a final written report
Deliver a short oral presentation.

5. Categories 1. Biochemistry/microbiology/food science
2. Environmental science/chemistry/earth science
3. Animal science
4. Plant and soil science
5. Engineering/physics
6. Consumer product testing

6. Objectives
To initiate a program based on science and the scientific method
To increase awareness of science, engineering and technology among 4-H members
To place science, engineering and technology in the forefront of the 4-H project
Science abilities encompass the entirety of the cause and effect on the world
Engineering is recognized as a problem-solving and design process within science and technology
Technology is human innovation

7. Who Can Complete a DSM Poster?
Youth in grades 3rd – 12th
Can be an individual effort
Can be a team effort of no more than 3 members

8. Poster Example

9. Poster Example

10. Agriculture Product ID
This project provides youth the ability to further their knowledge and skills when evaluating agricultural products grown in Texas
There are two components
Identify a product
Answer a question about the product; can be general to the industry (economic impact to Texas , general nutrition content, Texas’s national ranking, region of production) and specific to the individual product of display (growing season, use, cooking method, specific nutrition for that cut or variety)

11. AG Product ID Example Cauliflower Lettuce Broccoli Celery
What time of year does this product flourish?
A. late Spring
B. early Winter
C. late Fall & Winter
D. Late Winter

12. AG Product Id Example Tangerine Orange Starfruit Nectarine
What are the scars sometimes found on this product that are caused by the Gulf of Mexico breezes?
A. Bruises
B. Runts
C. Tropical Beauty Marks
D. Creases

14. What is Path to the Plate?
A look into the agriculture industry in our state and across our nation.
A factual, unbiased examination of the food we eat and its original source.
A program designed to deliver correct, research-based information.
A program to dispel myths, promote truths and educate the producers and consumers.

15. Goals of Path to the Plate
Provide Texans with factual, science-based information to help in making better informed decisions about the foods we eat.
Present the important role agriculture plays in our daily lives – from production to harvest to our tables.
Educate consumers about the safety of our food supply.

16. Connecting the Projects
Research a Texas Agriculture Commodity
Gain a better understanding of the vital role that agriculture plays in our daily lives
Learn relevant facts and the importance of nutritional needs provided by Texas Agriculture products
The production of food and fiber in America – and in Texas – is nothing short of a miracle. It’s been brought about by research, development of safe and sustainable technology and skill in applying it.

17. Sharing Project Experiences
Houston ISD Project Fair/ Spring Showcase Event
Big Time in D-9 – District 4-H Roundup Event
Texas 4-H Roundup – State 4-H Event in June
Contests at various livestock shows around the state
Agriculture Product ID Only
State Fair of Texas - Dallas
Heart of Texas Fair and Rodeo – Waco
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

18. Information Resources
Discover Science Method
Research Poster Information
Science Project Explore Guide
Agriculture Product Id
Explore Guide - Coming in Fall 2017