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Composting in the Classroom

Vision

Our vision for Canada is… for all citizens to reduce the size of their carbon footprint by composting organic waste and reducing the amount of trash going to the landfill. We also wanted to promote the idea of using food scraps to create nutrient-rich soil to feed our plants. Reducing our trash and using organic waste to create rich soil are two ways our class can work to make a difference.

Action

Our two grade 3 classes ordered two living composters and some red wiggler worms from cathyscomposters.com. We watched the DVD on how to setup and maintain the composters. Students participated in some healthy eating workshops, and the fruits and vegetable scraps were used in the worm composters. Students aerated the worm composters daily, and added more organic scraps as needed. We were pleasantly surprised to notice the difference in the soil after a few weeks.
We had regular discussions about the importance of reducing our carbon footprint, and how composting can assist with this. Students created posters, to inform and promote the idea of worm composting, and hung them around the school. Composting is an easy way for anyone to make a difference, by reducing their carbon footprint, and creating nutrient-rich soil. Students became passionate and knowledgeable about worm composting. They comfortably spoke about our project to other staff and students, answering their questions and correcting any misconceptions.

Reflection & Celebration

Since grade 3 students learn about soil and plant growth, we thought we would test the quality of our composting soil against regular potting soil. We were pleasantly surprised to see that the sunflower seeds we planted in our composting soil were taller and stronger than those in the regular potting soil. Students are looking forward to continuing to compost next year!

3. Good Health and Well-Being
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
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