Lesson Plan: Ecology-Minded Garbage Plants

Science, level: Middle

Materials Required: Seeds from apples, pears, oranges and grapefruits, potting soil, containers
Activity Time: Prep-15 minutes
Concepts Taught: How recycling ordinary garbage can create a living thing

Take a combination of seeds of the kind mentioned below and soak in warm water overnight. Divide seeeds evenly among students in the classroom. Give students either styrofoam cups or bottoms of milk containers. Fill 3/4 full of potting soil and plant seeds, point up about 1/2-3/4 inch deep. Too deep and the seeds will take a long time to come up and students will lose interest. After planting seeds, water gently and place in a warm, sunny place. Seeds should sprout within 1-2 weeks.

Water every 48-72 hours or as needed. Have students watch as little green sprouts become beautiful green leaves. When necessary, plants can be transplanted to larger containers. Or, make one very large plant in a flowerpot and have everyone share.

This is an excellent way to demonstrate recycling and ecological wonders.