The Small Family Farm

Worksheet Description

This Grade 12 research project worksheet prompts students to explore the decline of small family farms in the United States from 1935, when there were more than 6 million, to 2012, where the number dropped to two million. The assignment asks students to consider what constitutes a “small family farm,” whether they still exist, how they compare to large agricultural producers, and the interactions between small farms and larger agricultural culture. Students are expected to research the effects of this decline on the economy, health, independence, and rural communities, and then focus on one aspect that interests them the most, formulating specific questions for further investigation.

The worksheet is teaching students to conduct historical and sociological research into significant trends in American agriculture. It encourages critical thinking about economic and cultural change, particularly in rural areas. The project also helps students understand the broader implications of agricultural practices and policies. Moreover, it develops research skills, including question formulation and source evaluation, which are essential for academic inquiry and writing.