Understand decomposition
THEME: The Living Soil–The Living Plant: We are all Interconnected and Related
STRAND: Science of Soil Fertility
GRADE LEVEL: 3-5
Key Concepts
Understand that decomposition is one of the ways that nature cycles matter and energy.
Lesson
Compare and contrast the volume of a compost pile that is turned and a pile that is not turned.
Compare and contrast the temperature of a compost pile that is watered and a pile that is dry.
Conduct a visual investigation of fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates (FBI) in the wet/dry or turned/unturned compost using our eyes and a magnifying glass.
FBI/decomposition song \*(see Appendix)
Observe decomposition of mulch on the soil over time. Record data.
Research decomposition rates.
Create a decomposition timeline (e.g., slippers, apple, styrofoam, glass, etc.).
\* Watch: