Lesson Plan

Getting the Dirt on Decomposition

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Sometimes science requires getting a little dirty. A hands-on lesson explores the idea of decomposition by building a compost structure. Using red worms and dirt, individuals build and collect data on the rate of decomposition. The STEM lesson requires scholars to create their own designs and make conclusions based on their data.

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Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Create a composting bin on a larger scale to decompose class waste
  • Have learners record new vocabulary in graphic organizers and add notes as they complete the experiment
Classroom Considerations
  • Plan for six weeks to collect the necessary data
  • Part of a larger SLED design series
Pros
  • Provides motivation for the lesson with a real-life problem
  • Includes pupil handouts for procedures and data collection
Cons
  • None