Wetland in a tray

Children build a small model wetland and see how peat and moss hold on to water.

Steps

1. Chat: what lives in bogs and wetlands (frogs, storks, dragonflies) and why they matter.
2. Put soil into two trays: one with a layer of moss or sponge, the other without.
3. Children water both trays with the same amount of water from a watering can, like rain.
4. Watch which tray the water runs off faster and where it stays.
5. Conclusion: wetlands work like a sponge and protect us from floods and droughts.

Tip: A kitchen sponge is a great substitute for moss if there is none nearby.

Materials needed

• Plastic trays (2 per group)
• Kitchen sponges (1 pack)
• Children's watering can (1 per group)