Feed the Garden Within You

A Complete 12-Module Middle School Gut Microbiome Curriculum. Grades 6–8 | Ages 11–14. Developed by Veera Kalakota.

📚 Curriculum Overview

Welcome to Feed the Garden Within You a science-backed, student-friendly journey into the amazing world of your gut microbiome. Using the garden metaphor throughout, this curriculum helps middle schoolers understand that their gut is a living ecosystem they can nurture through everyday food choices.

Core Philosophy

Your gut is a garden. The bacteria are your gardening partners. Food is fertilizer. And you are the gardener.

Curriculum Structure

12 progressive modules, each 45–60 minutes, designed for grades 6–8. Each module provides a comprehensive learning experience via:

Learning objectives & core concepts
Scientific vocabulary
Hands-on activities & discussion prompts
Formative and summative assessments

Module Sequence at a Glance

The curriculum follows a logical progression, starting with basic concepts of the microbiome and leading students through dietary choices, physiological connections, and finally, community advocacy for gut health.

🌱 Module Roadmap

Module 1 – Meet Your Hidden Gut Garden

Feed the Garden

Module 05

Slow & Steady Wins the Gut Race

Module 06

Building Walls Your Body Actually Wants

Module 07

Variety Is the Spice of Gut Life

Module 08

The Gut-Brain Connection

Module 09

Threats to the Garden

Module 10

Probiotics & Fermented Foods

Module 11

Prebiotics

Module 12