Litter Garden

Overview:

The varying decomposition rates of human-made and natural materials are highly visible in litter. By taking a closer look at what comprises our "litter stream," we can begin to understand and change some harmful producing, using and disposal habits. Students will compare decomposition rates of different objects and will discuss the effects of littering on the environment.

Connection to the Curriculum: Geography, Environmental Studies, and Science

Teaching Level: K-5

Connection to State Content Standards:

4 Explain how humans and the physical environment impact and influence each other

Connection to National Standards:

Standard 14 How human actions modify the physical environment.

Materials:

Litter samples
Soil
Containers for soil
Markers (Popsicle sticks)
Water

Procedure:
  1. Collect samples of litter. Review the concept of decomposition and the difference between natural and human-made materials. Discuss littering. Which kinds of materials do you think will decompose and which will not? Make predictions.
  2. Add a two-inch layer of soil. Arrange the samples leaving room between each one. Put a marker in the soil identifying what is in each spot. Cover the samples with two more inches of soil and sprinkle with enough water to make it moist. Add a little water daily.
  3. Uncover the samples periodically and record what has happened to each one. Discuss the results over a two-month period. Option: Bury natural materials in one box and human-made in another. When the experiment is finished, the two containers of soil can be used to grow seeds. Is there a difference in the rate of growth?
    4.