6172RB Science a STEM approach Year 2 low res watermark

Earth and space sciences
OUR RESOURCEFUL WORLD
STEM project
STEM project overview
Compost bin
Students work in groups of 2–3 to design and create a miniature compost bin to show the
school gardener how he/she can reuse waste materials from Earth’s natural resources to make
a compost bin that will provide nutrients to the garden. Students then create a video explaining
how a compost bin works and how the gardener will need to look after it.
Concepts overview:
Science
• Apply knowledge of Earth’s resources and how reducing, reusing and recycling our waste can
protect the environment for future generations.
Technology/Engineering
• Apply the design process to plan, create and evaluate a compost bin showing how food and
garden waste, paper and cardboard can be reused.
• Select appropriate materials and apply safety procedures while creating.
• Create a digital video to explain to the school gardener how compost bins work and how to
look after a compost bin.
Mathematics
• Use knowledge of halves and quarters to measure and add waste materials to the compost bin.
• Use a calendar to record when waste materials need to be added to the compost bin and
when it will need to be mixed for airation.
Alternative project ideas:
• In groups, students design and create a water filter using a recycled plastic bottle and
Earth’s natural resources. Students take a digital photograph of each step and upload the
photographs to a computer to create a step-by-step guide showing how to turn ground water
into clean drinking water. The presentation must include students’ photographs and a written
explanation of each step. See how to make the water filter at .
• In pairs, students design and create equipment for an outdoor game or activity, using recycled
materials. Suggestions include: traditional outdoor games, such as ring toss; real-life versions
of digital games, such as Angry birds ; or enlarged versions of indoor games, such as Jenga .
Students then create a video advertisement explaining why people should buy their game
rather than a shop-bought game.
© R.I.C. Publications
Low resolution display copy
R.I.C. Publications® – www.ricpublications.com.au 978-1-925431-95-7 YEAR
Science:
A STEM APPROACH
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