Ask kids to compare what they've learned about this individual with Yucky's resident Worm Woman , Mary Appelhof. Ecology Careers Students interested in ecological studies have many career paths they can consider. Point out Worm Woman 's interview with Wendell to get them thinking about vermiculture. Then let students brainstorm a list of other jobs tied to ecology. This could be the start of a fascinating Ecology Career Day at your school.
Kids can investigate the relative value of worm composting for the average gardener.
Challenge them to assign a value to their time per hour based on current market value, figure in any material and worm costs and other expenses, and determine how much composting really costs per month or year. Compare with other available methods of fertilizing garden soil and weigh the costs, pros and cons. Once all the facts are in, have the class present both sides in a formal debate, with half the students arguing in favor of composting and the other half advocating for alternative, high tech methods. Start your kids off with a point and click peek at Yucky's Worm World and an opportunity to explore the interactive body structure chart . Get your live earthworms from a bait shop, biological supply house, or just dig them up in a nearby playground, empty lot, park or yard.