Compost Field Trip
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Provided by: Green Ninja|Published on: January 10, 2023
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Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This short, animated video follows Green Ninja and his friends as he investigates why the school compost bin smells bad.
- Students will learn about the elements of successful compost, including the proper ingredients, the need for moisture, and the importance of mixing.
Subjects: Biology
Authors: Green Ninja
Region: Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This video is upbeat and entertaining, with playful graphics that will keep students engaged.
- This resource includes beneficial classroom questions and plentiful extension ideas.
Additional Prerequisites
- This video assumes that students know what compost is, so be sure students understand this idea before watching and consider using the "Frame" questions provided for additional pre-viewing preparation.
- The Garbology video that is suggested as a background-building game may not be working depending on updates to Adobe, so preview this link before using.
Differentiation
- It may be helpful to view this short video more than once so that students can keep up with the fast-paced information that is presented.
- Before a second viewing of the video, have students use the "Focus" questions to give purpose to their learning.
- Put students in groups or with partners after viewing the video to discuss the "Follow-up" questions.
- Language arts or science classes could use the writing prompts provided while conducting short research projects on chemical and physical changes or greenhouse gases and compost.
- For students who may need additional support, consider using this introductory lesson on composting which contains a relevant lesson plan and worksheet.
- As an extension activity, consider using the directions in this guide to create a compost bin or use these compost bin directions.
This resource provides teachers with a guide to teach students about reducing waste and composting. The resources provided include framing questions to gauge students understanding of carbon footprints prior to watching a video ~ 3.5 minutes long. The video centers around a group of friends, along with the green ninja, investigating successful composting. Focus questions, along with follow-up questions and optional extensions are provided. This video, along with the supporting material, is well sourced and would make a great addition to a classroom discussing reducing waste and what effects waste reduction could have on the planet.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
Green Ninja
Green Ninja grew out of academic research at San Jose State University that demonstrated how well-designed educational experiences can promote pro-environmental attitudes and behavior in youth. This research is the foundation for the Green Ninja middle school science curriculum that has been adopted by the California Department of Education as an approved NGSS science provider. Today, Green Ninja is the only commercial science publisher in the U.S. that uses local climate and environmental problems as a lens for teaching science. Green Ninja is a California Benefit Corporation with the goal of creating a cleaner and healthier planet for everyone.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
