1. COMMUNICATE Read the text and then discuss the questions with a partner.
Produce is grown all across the U.S., but each type of fruit and vegetable can only grow in certain climates and seasons. For example, most oranges in the U.S. are grown in Florida, where the weather is hot and humid. They are in season in winter and that’s when they reach stores. So why can we buy oranges all year long? They’re shipped to stores from other states, and even from other countries. While this may be convenient for shoppers, it’s bad for the environment. Shipping produce long distances causes air pollution. If you want to help the environment, buy local produce!
1. Why should you buy local produce? Explain.
2. What produce do you buy most often? Do you know if it’s local?
2. RESEARCH In pairs, look for information online about produce that is grown in your area. Then complete the table.
What type of produce grows in your state? When is it in season?
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3. COMMUNICATE Discuss the questions with your partner.
1. What information did you already know? What new information did you learn?
2. Are you able to find these items at your supermarket all year? Are they more expensive at certain times of the year?
3. Based on what you learned, will you change the way you shop for produce? Explain.
1. It is important to buy local produce because it reduces the environmental impact of shipping food long distances, such as air pollution. Buying local also supports local farmers and helps to boost the local economy.
2. I buy a lot of apples and berries, and I am not sure if they are always local. I will make an effort to pay more attention to where my produce is coming from in the future.
3.
1. I already knew that some produce is only in season at certain times of the year, but I learned more about the impact of shipping produce long distances.
2. I found out that some of the produce grown in my area includes strawberries, tomatoes, and corn. They are in season in the summer months. I will pay more attention to when these items are in season and try to buy them locally during those times.
3. I will definitely make an effort to buy more locally grown produce, especially when it is in season. This will not only benefit the environment but also support local farmers in my community.