The worksheets on this page will help Key stage 1 pupils understand the science of textiles. We hope doing these activities will create better scientists and more critical thinkers. We know the wicked problems (complex and difficult issues like climate change and biodiversity loss) we are leaving the next generation will need some innovative thinking to solve them!
(pdf) Download KS1 Worksheet: Ice Magnets
This activity will help KS1 children (aged 5-7) to understand some of the properties of plastic as a material. It links with the National Curriculum and is a fun and active way of teaching science.
(pdf) Download KS1 Worksheet: Properties of plastic
Turning twigs, leaves and bits of vegetables and fruit into gorgeous rich compost which helps plants grow is one of the natural world’s magic tricks! Learn how with our wonderful collection of hint, tips and videos below, including from Devon’s very own Dr Compost – Nicky Scott.
Composting is really good for the environment as it recycles nutrients so plants can use them again. If you’re a school it could also save you money by reducing the cost of someone picking up your bin. Devon has supported schools for many years to compost their cooked food waste as well as peels and cores.
Composting can also be a fantastic learning resource which can support many curriculum areas. It can get kids out of the classroom, learning practical, useful science. Whether your topic is minibeasts, habitats, micro-organisms or global warming, your compost bin can provide hands-on learning opportunities for pupils of all ages.
There’s loads of hints and tips about setting up your own compost heap, whether at home or in a school, on the Devon Composting Network website: Devon Community Composting Network – Composting with schools and communities (dccn.org.uk)
It doesn’t matter if you are a complete beginner, or a seasoned rotter; whether you have a ‘state of the art’ composter, or a neglected plastic ‘Dalek’ in the corner of the playground.
This handbook supports teachers to use composting as an inspiring teaching resource throughout the school year. For each month it contains a curriculum-linked KS2 lesson plan and an Eco Team activity, plus a wealth of supporting documents to bring composting to life for adults and pupils.
Click on the image below for a preview of selected pages from this exciting resource. If you work in a Devon School, email recycle@devon.gov.uk to receive a free hard copy of the handbook. (Numbers are restricted to one per school, two for larger primaries). Alternatively download it straight away in an easy-to-read pdf format below.
This guide has been written for schools interested in composting their cooked food waste as well as cores and peels.
It explains the different types of composting equipment available; explores issues to consider before you purchase your composter; explains how to achieve the all-important balance of materials for successful composting; and suggests ways to involve the whole school in this ground-breaking form of composting.
Composting in Schools: A practical guide to composting food waste
Troubleshooting sheet for composting raw food waste
Troubleshooting sheet for cooked food waste using a turning composter
Types of school composters
