Story Time - Carl and the Meaning of Life

Activity 1: Learn from the Worm

Earthworms are crucial to the health of our topsoil, where many plants grow. Carl wasn’t sure what the meaning of life was, but one thing is clear, without earthworms like Carl we would not be able to grow nourishing plants to eat or to feed other animals. Worms are decomposers, which means that they eat and digest dead or decaying matter, such as dead animals, or rotting fruits and vegetables. Then, decomposers return nutrients back into the soil by pooping them out. Worm poop, small round pellets called “castings,” are like vitamins for the soil and the plants. They fertilize the plants and help them grow. When earthworms tunnel into the earth, like Carl did, they are aerating the soil. The soil is full of worm tunnels that helps air get into the earth. This is important because a lot of the creatures that we want in the soil need that air to breathe. The worm tunnels also create channels for water to flow and roots to grow. It makes the soil more healthy and able to support life.

Look for a worm around your neighborhood. They may be in a pot, or in an earthy spot that’s moist. If you are lucky enough to find one, take a moment to observe it. Draw the worm, write down words to describe the worm or talk about what you notice about the worm.

How long is it? What color is it? Where is the face of the worm and where is the tail end of the worm? How do you know? Please be very careful when handling worms; they are sensitive to light and vibrations. They breathe through their skin and are covered with very fine hair-like bristles that they use to help them move, so be gentle when you pick them up. You might notice a bulging part around one end of the worm. That’s called a clitellum and it’s where the earthworm’s cocoons are formed.

Activity 2: Worm Heroes