The ECO Unit: G9 French Classes Helps Make Compost into Great Soil
Grade three will plant a strip of flowers this spring!
This Wednesday (14.10.2026) Grade 9 French classes helped the ECO Team at VIS turn regular compost mostly made out of grass and old leaves into great soil which will be used for a Project on the Japanese Field.
The main mission of Ms. Marti (the leader of the project) was to teach the G9’s about the importance of Great soil and how it impacts our food and wellbeing as well as the wellbeing of animals and microorganisms.
A big part of this project was a hands-on experience which the students got by contributing in a part of the “Compost Cycle”. In a short interview with some of the G9 students participating in the activity we, the SparkNews™ team, have found that some did not greatly appreciate the activity, while others found it great and quite fun
(*How was your Experience* [Interview]. October 14, 2026):
The “not so fun” aspect of things was greatly described by one G9 as “Revolutionary French Peasants Work.” (Probably due to the mixing of the soil being “draining” work).
Although mixed reviews the topics were drastic, some talking about the soil affecting the nutritive value of the fruits and vegetables we eat. (Marti Hendrichs. [Slideshow]. Vienna International School).
Another project of similar type (also lead by Ms. Marti) is a project with students from Grade 3 who will be contributing to the ecosystem by planting a strip of flowers on the Japanese field to welcome pollinators (like bees, butterflies and bumblebees) back to the fields of Donaufeld. Yet even this project got criticism some say that this will “bring more bees and disturb PE sessions”, said jokingly by a member of our community (Disclaimer: Not the opinion of the author nor was this comment taken seriously and was said jokingly).
This project is an important part of being an eco school and is a great example of what VIS does to preserve wildlife and the environment. Although not realised by many soil is very important as the better it is the more nutritious our food becomes and it helps the animals and insects around the area.
Sources & credits
- G9 Students participating in the Activity. How was your Experience [Interview]. October 14, 2026.
- Soil [Image]. umd.eu. https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2021-03/hgic_soils_soil_cross_section_1600.jpg?itok=B6yNaByH Accessed Oct. 14, 2026.
