In this day of digital learning, my students spend hours on technology. As much of a great resource it is for personalized learning and research, I feel that they are missing out on vital hands on exploration and experiences. I want my students to get their hands dirty....literally!
I teach a split level 2nd and 3rd grade Next Generation (digital learning) class.
They are highly curious and actively engaged! They certainly keep me on toes wanting to learn more and more. I'm fortunate enough that they LOVE all things nonfiction. We could literally have hour long discussions on topics ranging from life cycles to the lives of historical figures. Their IPads serve a great purpose, but I know they want more hands on "action" in the classroom. And, quite frankly, so do I.
My Project
We've been exploring the planet Earth and will begin a life sciences unit soon. I want to continue to teach my students about conservation and recycling. But I want to put it into action. I want them to know about composting and how it is nature's way of recycling unwanted and leftover food. Plus, it would be really cool to feed worms, watch worms, and have them as our pets. I also think the end product, the nutrient rich soil, will be amazing for my students to see. This soil could be used in our small vegetable garden at our school.
As a bonus, students will also learn how to care for living creatures, the life cycle and characteristics of red worms, and they will build community in their classroom and throughout the school.
The plan is for students to be charged with collecting unwanted vegetables and fruits. They will feed the worms weekly. Also, a journal will be kept graphing the amount of food given (weight), rate at which it is eaten, and "favorites" among the worms.
By composting whenever possible, we are adding nutrients to soil, saving space in landfills, and helping prevent global warming.
It is my hope that students will develop a mindset of conservation, recycling, and reusing that will last a lifetime.
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