Eco-Enrichment Expedition

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Topic: In this hands-on activity, students will have fun as they learn about the importance of composting and its positive impact on the environment. Using the information and materials provided, students will create a mini composting bin that will help them develop practical skills such as sorting organic waste, monitoring the decomposition process, and explaining the various uses of compost.

Time: This session typically takes 90 minutes to complete and should be conducted in one session.

Materials:

  • Pre-Activity Checklist

  • Tell My Story form

  • PowerPoint: Eco-Enrichment Expedition

  • Student Activity Handout: Eco-Enrichment Expedition Computer with projector, speakers, and Internet access

The following supplies are per team:

  • Spray bottle containing water

  • 1 Two-liter bottle (empty and clean) Organic materials

    • Bulking (Brown) Agents – wood shavings, small wood chips, newspaper strips, pieces of paper egg cartons

    • Food for the Microbes (Green) – lettuce, carrot peelings, apple core, bread crusts, banana peels, weeds, grass clippings

  • Utility knife

  • Plastic lid or paper plate (to catch excess water) Duct tape

  • Marker

  • Pushpin

  • Latex gloves

  • 1 Cup of potting soil (optional)

  • 2 Empty paper grocery bags

  • Chef’s knife

  • Cutting board

Estimated Cost: Activity leaders can expect to incur less than $50.00 in materials costs when completing this activity with 30 students organized into teams of two students (15 teams). The cost could be significantly reduced by using recycled two-liter bottles.