Exploration Modules

Welcome to the Trash Terminators Exploration Modules. We have created some web-based versions of our traveling exhibit, Trash Terminators!, featuring extra information and oportunities to learn more about recycling.

Please select a module to explore from the list below:

Great Gobs of Garbage!

Students will become aware of the large volume of garbage created every day in our society. They can also trace the route their garbage takes, from the home to the landfill. Graphics display the amounts and kinds of materials found in a typical landfill, and help students understand why communities choose source reduction as a means for managing solid waste. This section helps demonstrate the value of reducing, reusing, and recycling.

Use it Again!

Students are challenged to think of ways to reduce garbage at its source. They also have the opportunity to create "junk art" using materials donated by local businesses. This is a chance for students to "reuse" on their own terms!

Recycle Here!

Students will find out what and how to recycle in the typical recycling-conscious community by sorting materials into a model of a "blue-bin". Students also have opportunities to learn about the steps of recycling by "becoming" a piece of garbage, and following the life cycle of that item. Other activities cover topics such as renewable and non renewable resources, geographical origin of resources, and costs and benefits of recycling.

Think Before You Buy!

Students can see a variety of products made with recycled material. They will also be given the opportunity to make wise purchasing decisions by shopping in a virtual shopping market, applying the concepts they have learned throughout the exhibit.

Eat Your Garbage!

Students can mimic a worm crawling through a composting bin. The students must make the right decisions to guide the worm through the composting bin, by choosing the right types of food to put in the composting bin. Students can view pictures of a working worm bin, and see pictures of the worms and other decomposers found in a typical worm bin. Students can learn how to build their own worm bin as well.