Our Living ClassroomLearn • grow • choose

2026–27 • Labs & wellness

Compost – Nature Recycles

Sort compost examples and look for signs of change.

Classroom lesson: Compost – Nature Recycles

Today I can…

choose an approved compost material

Words to know

Words for this lesson

SCRAPLEAFCOMPOSTCHANGESORT

Follow along

What we will do

  1. 1

    Look

    Compare a fresh leaf picture with a decomposed-material picture.

  2. 2

    Sort

    Sort cards into ADD, DO NOT ADD, or ASK for this compost system.

  3. 3

    Observe

    Look at the managed sample without touching or smelling closely.

  4. 4

    Connect

    Arrange pictures showing scraps changing into compost.

  5. 5

    Choose care

    Choose one approved check for the compost care chart.

Speech, sign, point, eye gaze, or AAC

Tell us what you need

Choose a word when you are ready.

ADDDO NOT ADDASKLOOKSTOP
Teacher & para guideMaterials, learning objectives, access, and safety

Materials

  • Managed compost samples in closed containers or photographs
  • Approved material picture cards
  • Simple compost-system guide and care chart

Safety first

Use a managed system and its accepted-material guide. Do not handle moldy material, animal waste, meat, or unknown scraps. Adults manage bins and tools; keep samples away from food and wash hands.

Follow each student's IEP, health, feeding, allergy, behavior, and mobility plans.

Individual learning objectives

Choose Level 1, 2 or 3 individually in either House group. A House is not an ability level. Watching, directing and communicating a boundary are valid participation.

Level 1

Choose or indicate one scrap example using an established response.

Level 2

Complete or direct two steps of the activity with support.

Level 3

Compare results and communicate one observation or care decision.

Skill focus: Sorting, decomposition, observation, care routines

30-minute teaching sequence

Introduce · 5 min

5 minutes: Show the finished example or materials. Preview the choices, boundaries, and ways to participate.

I do · 10 min

5 minutes: Compare a fresh leaf picture with a decomposed-material picture. Model one action slowly and demonstrate HELP and STOP.

We do · 10 min

15 minutes: Sort cards into ADD, DO NOT ADD, or ASK for this compost system. Look at the managed sample without touching or smelling closely. Arrange pictures showing scraps changing into compost.

Exit choice · 5 min

5 minutes: Choose one approved check for the compost care chart. Record the learner’s actual choice or observation; tidy the station together.

Science note: Microorganisms and other decomposers break down organic material. Composting takes time and suitable conditions; not every material belongs in every compost system.

Prepare for this learner

Offer speech, pointing, gaze, AAC, partner-assisted scanning, or a recorded choice. Follow individual vision and mobility plans. Present one or two items at a time; watching, declining, and taking a break are valid participation.

Lower-staffing option: Use one facilitator-led tray with learners choosing, observing, or directing from their seats. Omit handling if supervision is insufficient.

Record the response, access method, opportunities and support used. Record observed, declined or not assessed separately; a communicated refusal is not a failure of participation.

Word lesson plan

Editable classroom source plan. Source files may retain earlier titles. Use the individual level choices and safety guidance above when preparing the session.

Access supports

Communication Model five core words; accept speech, AAC, eye gaze, gestures, object choices, signs, and partner-assisted scanning.

Sensory Present one material at a time. Offer tools, gloves, observe-only, a scent-free choice, and a quiet break.

Motor Stabilize containers, pre-loosen parts, use adapted grips, and offer seated, standing, partner, or directing roles.

Learning Show the finished result, model first, use short visual steps, repeat, and record the least support needed.

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