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Every classroom profits from materials that make it look inviting. Far beyond the aesthetic aspect, materials that give a classroom personality have numerous advantages for students. While classroom furnishing possibilities may be limited in other subjects, science classrooms have almost limitless possibilities.In this post, I want to outline the benefits of having living objects in science classrooms.

Firstly, the presence of living objects in the classroom can raise students' interest in science and increase their motivation to participate. Students might encounter plants, aquariums, and terrariums before class even starts and have time to observe the organisms’ appearance and behavior. This can help initiate a thought process about scientific phenomena and encourage students to ask specific questions. Questions like, 'What is wrong with the cockroaches?' can serve as valuable resources in class, introducing students to new concepts or complementing existing ones.

Moreover, a lively classroom can influence students' personal interests. Students who are interested in biology can pursue this interest in the classroom and may even share their experiences with their parents. This could lead parents to support their child’s interest by buying a fish tank as a gift or planning a trip to the zoo. In this way, living objects in a classroom can spark personal interests.

Another point to consider is the appreciation of nature that students gain through direct contact with it. Students who lack exposure to science outside of school may not feel strongly about the environment or its protection. However, if they learn to value living organisms in class, their sense of responsibility for nature can grow. This effect is amplified when students take on responsibilities to keep their classroom environment thriving, such as watering plants or feeding fish. These small tasks help foster a greater appreciation for animals and plants.

Additionally, a variety of organisms can be used in lessons for demonstrations or even project work. Hands-on experiences contribute to psychomotor learning skills and help students remember what they did. A memorable class is one that students will share with their peers.

Finally, the goal of every science teacher should be to make scientific phenomena more relatable to their students. While furnishing science classrooms with living objects might mean extra work for teachers, the benefits are substantial. Living classrooms help students develop personal interests, heighten their awareness of environmental protection, and serve as valuable resources for engaging, meaningful lessons.

Thanks for this thoughtful insight.  As a new teacher this article gave me great ideas and insight on the many advantages of classroom pets ands plants.

We have a selfsustained ecosystem in my classroom.

Having a classroom hydroponics ecosystem with fish, also known as aquaponics, offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary learning experience for students. This system combines fish farming with soilless plant cultivation, creating a closed-loop ecosystem where fish waste provides nutrients for plants, and the plants help filter the water for the fish. This setup allows students to observe and engage with key biological and ecological processes, such as nutrient cycling, energy flow, and interdependence among organisms. It also aligns with curriculum standards like the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) by fostering inquiry-based learning and integrating biology, chemistry, and environmental science.

A hydroponics system with fish offers numerous hands-on learning opportunities, from monitoring water quality and pH levels to observing plant growth and fish behavior. Students develop STEM skills by measuring variables, analyzing data, and maintaining the system’s balance. The process encourages critical thinking as they solve real-world problems like optimizing plant growth or ensuring fish health. Furthermore, it sparks curiosity and engagement, making abstract concepts tangible and memorable.

Beyond academics, aquaponics systems promote environmental awareness and sustainability. Students learn about resource conservation, efficient food production, and the benefits of sustainable farming practices. This firsthand experience deepens their understanding of global challenges like food security and water management. The system also fosters responsibility and teamwork, as students take part in maintaining the ecosystem, feeding the fish, and harvesting plants.

Incorporating a hydroponics ecosystem with fish into the classroom transforms passive learning into an active, immersive experience. It not only enhances scientific literacy but also cultivates life skills and a broader appreciation for the interconnectedness of living systems, making it an invaluable tool for modern education.