S3.2.5 For the adult
Decomposers and recycling
What happens to a leaf that falls to the ground and nobody picks up?
What this chapter teaches
Dead plants and animals are broken down by fungi and bacteria, with help from worms and woodlice. The nutrients return to the soil for plants to use. Decay is fastest in warm, damp conditions.
Three questions to ask
There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.
- What happens to a leaf that falls on the ground?
- Why does food last longer in a cold place?
- What do worms do that helps decomposers?
After the chapter, the learner can
- Explain how fungi, bacteria and worms break down dead things
- Make a compost heap and record what rots first
What they copy into their notebook
Decomposers are fungi and bacteria. They break down dead things and put nutrients back in the soil. Worms and woodlice tear dead leaves into small pieces. Decay is fastest when it is warm and damp.