Composting Exploration
Supports agricultural awareness, STEM integration, literacy, and social-emotional development at the IPC Level 1 stage.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS At the Farm
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Developmentally appropriate objectives aligned to IPC Level 1 for Composting Exploration.
Materials
- Level-appropriate farm-themed materials and manipulatives.
Instructions
Materials
- A clear, medium-sized plastic bin with holes for ventilation.
- Clean food scraps such as apple cores, banana peels, and lettuce leaves.
- Dry brown materials like shredded newspaper or dried leaves.
- A small hand trowel or large plastic serving spoon.
- Magnifying glasses for close observation.
- A spray bottle filled with water.
Learning Objectives
- Identify that food scraps change appearance over time.
- Use sensory skills to describe the texture and smell of compost materials.
- Practise fine motor skills by tearing paper and using tools to mix the bin.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the farm-to-table cycle by discussing how soil helps plants grow.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather students in a circle and place the empty bin in the centre.
2. Show the children the food scraps and ask them to name the items.
3. Demonstrate how to tear the newspaper into small strips and place them into the bin.
4. Invite each child to place one piece of food scrap into the bin.
5. Explain that these items will eventually turn into soil for the farm.
6. Use the spray bottle to lightly mist the contents, explaining that the compost needs a little moisture to stay healthy.
7. Allow children to take turns using the trowel to gently mix the items together.
8. Provide magnifying glasses for children to look closely at the mixture.
9. Place the bin in a designated corner of the classroom where it can remain undisturbed.
10. Schedule a time each week for the children to check the bin and observe any changes in the texture or colour of the materials.
Educator Tip
To prevent odors and fruit flies, ensure the bin remains covered and avoid adding dairy or meat products. If students lose interest, focus the discussion on the colours and textures of the items rather than the decomposition process itself.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can distinguish between the wet food scraps and the dry paper.
- Note the child's ability to follow safety instructions when using the trowel.
- Record the child's verbal description of the compost materials during the observation period.
Educator tip
Guided questioning to encourage language, reasoning, and participation. Differentiate for ability levels; incorporate sensory supports; ensure safety.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observation checklist or rubric aligned to developmental stage.