“Soil Health in Our Hands” Extension Activity

Creating Compost Bottles

Overview

Composting is a process of breaking down organic materials into nutrient rich soil. In this activity, students will be composting in a 2 Liter soda bottle to observe the composting process in a controlled environment. By using the compost bottles, they will be able to observe the decomposition process up close!

Materials

  • Plastic bottles (clear and transparent) with lids

  • Scissors, Markers, Labels

  • Organic waste materials (e.g., vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, shredded paper)

  • Dry materials (e.g., leaves, small pieces of cardboard)

  • Water spray bottle

  • Compost Bottle Observation Table Handout (Here)

  • Optional: gloves and aprons for students

Activity Duration:

  • 1 hour

Essential Questions

  • How much of a change did you notice in your compost bottle after the weekend? Why is that?

  • Why is it important to compost?

  • What was the most surprising change you observed?

 

Safety Note: Remind students to handle organic waste materials with care and to wash their hands thoroughly afterward. If using gloves and aprons, ensure students wear them when handling materials. It is essential to follow any local guidelines or regulations regarding waste management and composting activities.

Instructions

  1. Introduce the concept of composting to the students, explaining how it is a natural process of breaking down organic materials into nutrient-rich soil.

  2. Divide the class into small groups and distribute the necessary materials to each group.

  3. Instruct each group to cut off the top portion of the plastic bottle (approximately one-third of the way from the bottom) using scissors. This will serve as the lid.

  4. Have students label their bottles with their names or group numbers to keep track.

  5. Explain to the students that the bottom part of the bottle will act as the composting chamber, where the decomposition will take place.

  6. Instruct the students to start layering the organic waste and dry materials inside the bottom part of the bottle. They should begin with a layer of dry materials, followed by a layer of organic waste, and continue alternating until the bottle is about three-fourths full. Remind them not to pack the materials too tightly.

  7. Once the bottle is filled, students can lightly spray water into the bottle using the water spray bottle to create a moist environment. The moisture is important for the decomposition process.

  8. Students should close the compost bottle by placing the lid (the top portion of the bottle) securely on top.

  9. Instruct students to place their compost bottles in a warm, well-lit area but away from direct sunlight.

  10. Students will make daily observations on the provided observation sheet for 10 school days.

  11. After 10 days, have students open their compost bottles and examine the resulting compost.

  12. Conclude the activity by facilitating a class discussion using the provided essential questions.