At a glance
Vermicomposting is a project of two 60-minute workshops for grades 1 to 6 that brings compost into the classroom to cut its waste in half.
Students learn how natural decomposition works, then make vermicompost: earthworms turn organic waste into enriched soil. The project includes delivery of the bin, setup and a 15-minute training on how to use it.
Cutting your classroom’s waste in half is possible! Transform your class’s green habits by bringing in compost!
Over these 2 workshops, your environmentalists learn how natural decomposition works, then put it into practice by making vermicompost: earthworms turn your organic waste into soil rich in vitamins and minerals. A natural fertilizer that makes the best soil around!
The project includes delivery of the vermicomposting bin, setup and a 15-minute training session on how to use it.
How it runs:
Visit 1: Flowers in the classroom (60 minutes).
Visit 2: Life underground (60 minutes), plus setup and a 15-minute training session on the vermicomposting bin (2-month loan).
Learning goals (elementary)
- Explain the science of composting and recycling.
- Identify habitats and the animal populations that live there (earthworms, fungi, burrowing animals).
- Describe how soil meets the basic needs of living things.
- Describe some impacts of human activity on the environment (for example, waste management).
- Understand how organic soil is made.
- Tell vermicomposting from composting.
- Describe the steps to good vermicomposting.
