AP® Environmental Science: Landfill Decomposition

Product Details

Overview
In this inquiry lab, students gain in-depth knowledge about how landfills work by constructing three simulated landfill environments: an organic soil open-air landfill, a sandy soil open-air landfill, and a sanitary landfill (trash sealed in a plastic bag within soil). Students bury eight different trash components—cornstarch peanuts, metal strips, paper strips, processed food, cotton string, synthetic nylon string, polystyrene peanuts, and wood pieces—then observe and record decomposition weekly over six to eight weeks. By comparing biodegradation rates across the three landfill types, students discover which materials are biodegradable, how soil type affects decomposition, and why sanitary landfills inhibit breakdown.

AP® Course and Exam Description Alignment
This activity is aligned to the 2024 AP® Environmental Science Course and Exam Description, Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution. Learning Objectives addressed:
● STB-3.K: Describe solid waste disposal methods.
● STB-3.L: Describe the effects of solid waste disposal methods.

Science Practices addressed include: SP 1.A, 1.C (Describe and explain environmental concepts in applied contexts); SP 4.D, 4.E (Make observations and explain modifications to experimental procedures); SP 5.B, 5.C, 5.E (Describe relationships, explain patterns, and explain what data implies about environmental issues); SP 7.A, 7.B, 7.C (Describe environmental problems, potential responses, and advantages/disadvantages of solutions).

Exam Connect questions are included, featuring both free-response and multiple-choice questions aligned to Unit 8 topics and science practices.

Key Features

Real sample data included. Kit instructions always include real sample data—never made up! Teachers have complete 8-week data tables for all three landfill types with degradation ratings to guide expectations.

Tested and optimized. Each experiment has been thoroughly tested, retested, and optimized to guarantee safety and success.

Scaffolded for all learners. Prelab questions build foundational understanding of landfill types, anaerobic decomposition, and biodegradability predictions. Guided procedures walk students through landfill construction and weekly observations, and post-lab questions progress from data description to comparison to proposing solutions for waste reduction.

Flexible and adaptable. Students can bring in additional items from home to test biodegradability. Decomposition rates can be extended beyond eight weeks or tested with variables such as temperature and moisture.

Teacher Notes
Estimated Time: Initial setup requires one 50-minute class period. Observations should be made weekly over at least a six-week period.

Kit accommodates 15 groups of students.

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of waste management and decomposition. No advanced environmental science knowledge required.

Materials: Kit includes aluminum strips, potting soil, sand, wood splints, cornstarch peanuts, cotton string, nylon string, clear containers, Styrofoam peanuts, and popsicle sticks.

Additional Materials: Water; beaker; permanent marker; paper (for paper strips); plastic bags; processed food pieces; scissors.

Advanced Preparation: Teacher needs to precut aluminum strips, wood splints, string pieces, and paper strips to appropriate sizes before the lab.

Safety: Wear appropriate eye protection. Wash hands after handling soil and sample materials. Disinfect all work areas before leaving the lab.