Porter County Recycling and Waste Reduction is dedicated to providing FREE high quality, interactive education programs that meet Indiana State Academic standards to Porter County schools, grades K-8.
Our goals include providing thought-provoking, interactive lessons that not only provide an opportunity to learn, but prompt continued inquiry. Our programs incorporate a variety of learning styles, encouraging students to learn through exploration, logical thinking and discovery.
Our Programs
Important: We schedule on a first-come, first-serve basis, so be sure to schedule your programs early in the year. Last year, most of our spring dates were booked by the end of the fall semester. We try to accommodate as many teachers as possible and have adopted a policy of two programs per grade level. Most programs run 45 minutes to one hour, but we’re happy to accommodate specific scheduling needs.
Edible Landfill
Grades 3 – 8
Students will make a model edible landfill. Students are asked to bring a reusable spoon and bowl as they build and design layers of materials used in the construction of a mock modern landfill. They also will learn about the factors that can impact the surrounding environment, including groundwater.
Wonderful Worms
Grades K – 6
In their study of vermicomposting worms, students will assemble a model of a worm, learn about composting and use magnifiers to examine live red wiggler worms. Available in Video
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rethink
Grades K – 8
Students will learn about natural resources that are used to make products; materials that are recyclable; how to reduce, reuse, recycle and rethink; and see products made from recycled materials. Available in Video
Water Watchers
Grades 2 – 5
Learn about global water sources and better understand how easily pollution can contaminate our fresh water system. Students also will learn how relatively small our supply of fresh water is and why we need to protect it. Available In Video
Lovely Ladybugs
Grades K – 2
Students learn about the life cycle and body parts of ladybugs, the dangers of pesticides and a safe alternative. Each student will examine a live ladybug and release it into nature. (August, September, & May).
Dunes In My Backyard
Grades 1 – 5
This introduction to common plants and animals of Porter County will teach students about habitats, food chains and ecosystems. They also will learn about the differences between pets and wildlife. Available In Video
Lesson of the Lorax
Grades K – 2
This lesson reviews the basic needs of plants and animals and the importance of trees. The Dr. Seuss story “The Lorax” will be read, and students will act out the story in the form of a play. Available In Video
Pollution Town
Grades 3 – 5
Students will learn about their local watershed and many sources of pollution by using an interactive model. They also will participate in a review of the pollution solutions in their area.
Pollution Tunnel
Grades K – 2
Students will dive into learning about storm drain systems as they transform into water droplets traveling through storm drain pipes and into local water systems. Along the way, students pick up pieces of various pollutants that can contaminate lakes, streams and other bodies of water.
Renewable Energy
Grades 4 – 7
Students will review renewable and non-renewable resources and the problems of nonrenewable energy. Alternative energy sources including wind, solar, hydro and geothermal will be presented, and students will enjoy an interactive activity demonstrating how electricity is generated. They also will operate a solar-powered device.
Garbology
Grades 3 – 6
The science of garbology will be compared to archeology. Students will review and utilize the scientific method during activities. They will examine clean garbage in small groups and come up with observations and inferences about people they have never met.
Schedule Your Program
Complete the from below to learn more and to schedule your program. Remember that dates can fill up quickly!