Build a Mini Ecosystem Project Guide

What is inside

• How to build a closed jar ecosystem and an open terrarium, stage by stage
• What each layer does — drainage, charcoal, soil, plants, water
• A four-week observation log with space for drawings, measurements and notes
• Troubleshooting pages: mould, condensation, yellowing leaves, no change at all
• A comparison investigation: two jars, one variable changed
• Extension questions on nutrient cycling and closed systems

What you will need at home

• A clean jar with a lid, small stones, potting soil and a few small plants or moss
• Optional: activated charcoal, a spray bottle

File details

• Printable PDF, US Letter and A4
• Includes a printable label set for the jars

Licence

This file is licensed for one household. Print as many copies as you need for the children in your own home. Please do not share, resell, upload or distribute the file. Teaching a class or co-op? Choose a classroom or school licence instead — see For Teachers.

Instant download and refunds

Your download link appears on the order confirmation page and is emailed to you straight after payment. You can also find it any time in My Account › Downloads. Because the file is delivered immediately, we do not offer change-of-mind refunds once a file has been downloaded — but if a file will not open, is corrupt or is not what was described, contact us and we will replace it or refund you. This does not affect your rights under mandatory consumer law. Full terms: Refund & Cancellation Policy and Digital Products Policy.

Common questions

Do we need to buy live animals?

No. This guide is plant-based on purpose. No animals are collected or kept.

How long before something happens?

Condensation usually appears within a day or two. Plant changes take two to four weeks, which is why the log runs that long.