Lilliputian Landscaping

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In this activity, learners examine the different materials gardeners add to their soil, and discuss how these materials are important for plant growth. Learners explore how to build a sustainable terrarium by adding a waterbed, mixing their own soil and transplanting a small plant into their terrarium.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
Over $20 per student
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • 2 Quart-sized clear round plastic food containers (you can use old take-out soup containers)
  • Pebbles
  • Horticultural charcoal
  • Potting soil
  • Perlite
  • Peat moss
  • Compost
  • Sand
  • Nylon stocking, cut to fit diameter of the clear plastic food container
  • Tape
  • Small plants
  • Spoon
  • Water
  • Magnifying lens

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Rocks and Minerals
      • Biosphere
  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Plants
    • Ecology
      • Ecosystems
      • Energy Flow and Chemical Cycles
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories

  • Gardening
  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Education, Science Friday

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Science Friday, 2010