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K-8 Education Programs
K-8 Education Programs

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.

State Academic Standards

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

State Academic Standards

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

State Academic Standards

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

State Academic Standards

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).

State Academic Standards

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

State Academic Standards

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

State Academic Standards

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.

State Academic Standards

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.

State Academic Standards

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.

State Academic Standards

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.

State Academic Standards

See the Latest Education Newsletter

Released one to two times per year, our Education Newsletter contains the latest in programs designed to teach K-8 students about the impact they can have on our environment.

Schedule Your Program

Complete the from below to learn more and to schedule your program. Remember that dates can fill up quickly!

    Programs for Student Clubs

    Porter County Recycling and Waste Reduction experts are available to speak to school clubs, including environmental clubs, student councils, Boys and Girls clubs, and other after school programs. We’re happy to tailor a topic and presentation to fit your needs!

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