Designing a composting bin
7th Grade Science
Introduction:
Your group will be researching the concepts of composting as it relates to what we are
studying in class, and apply these concepts to design and build a composting bin. The
first part of the project will be to research composting and its ecological and
environmental effects. You will also be researching different types of composting bins,
including how they are used and managed. The second part will be to decide on one
composting bin design that your group would like to build for the final project. You will
need to have drawings and diagrams in your journal depicting the bin design, a list of
materials, tools, and information concerning the safety precautions for this particular
design. The third part of this project will be to build your composting bin so that it is
functional. You will need to bring in the materials and tools that you will be using.
Please let me know if you need any help in obtaining these supplies.
Part 1:
Researching composting concepts:
During two or three class periods, you will be using different resources, such as the
Internet, books, periodicals, etc., to learn more about composting and the scientific
concepts that pertain to composting. As you are researching, think about the following
concepts:
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What is decomposition?
How do cells of plants break down during decomposition?
How is pH related to composting?
How is temperature related to composting?
What kinds of Energy transfer occurs during composting?
What is environmentalism?
What are some taboos of environmentalism in our society?
What is ecology?
How is ecology related to composting?
Use the following websites to help you with your research:
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http://vegweb.com/composting/
http://www.epa.gov/waste/conserve/rrr/composting/index.htm
http://www.howtocompost.org/
http://www.composting101.com/
(You may also use other websites, books, or articles that you think would be helpful
during your research.)
(over)
Researching composting bin designs:
Once you have researched different concepts about composting, you will start researching
different composting bin designs. For this, use the same websites (given above). Draw at
least 3 different composting bin designs in your journal and write a few sentences
underneath each design, explaining its structure and procedures that need to be followed.
Record any data (measurements, temperature control, materials, climate conditions, etc.)
that you find as you are describing the composting bins.
Your group will be deciding on one composting bin that you will build as your final
project.
The rubric for Part 1 of the composting project will explain in detail the aspects that
are needed in order to meet the requirements of this assignment (see journal rubric
for composting unit).