EcoFarm Architect Instructions
EcoFarm Architect
3D Model & Design Challenge • Env. Science 11.7
Name: ____________________________
Date: _____________________________
The Challenge
Sustainable agriculture is about protecting the soil that feeds us. Your task is to design and build a 3D Scale Model of a "Regenerative Farm." Your farm must incorporate specific land management strategies discussed in Chapter 11.7 to prevent soil erosion, manage pests, and maintain soil health.
Model Requirements
- Select 3 Methods: Choose at least three sustainable farming methods from the strategy menu.
- Visual Labels: Each method must be clearly labeled with its name and a brief explanation.
- Creativity & Materials: Use recycled materials (clay, cardboard, sticks, etc.) to simulate soil, water, and crops.
- Written Component: Complete the "Plot Planner" to explain your design choices.
Strategy Menu
Choose at least three
- Contour Plowing
- Terracing
- Strip-Farming
- No-Till Planting
- Cover Cropping
- Intercropping
- IPM (Trap Crops)
Project Timeline
1
Plan & Research (4/9/26)
Pick methods and complete the Plot Planner organizer. Get teacher approval.
2
Collect Materials (4/9-4/12)
Gather household items (sponge = grass, sand = tilled soil, twigs = trees).
3
The Build (4/13-4/14)
Construct your landscape. Focus on the topography (hills vs. flat land).
4
Final Polish (4/15/26)
Add detailed labels and write your rationale. Ready for exhibition!
Architect's Tip:
Match your method to your land. Terracing is for steep mountains; contour plowing is for gentle rolling hills. Show the water flow!
Blueprint Plot Planner Organizer
Blueprint Plot Planner
Project Planning & Graphic Organizer
Name: ____________________________
Date: _____________________________
Strategy Selection
| Chosen Method | Scientific Purpose (How does it help soil?) | Model Materials |
|---|
| | |
| | |
| | |
Layout Sketch (Top-Down View)
Site Plan Rationale
How do these methods work together to create a regenerative farm? Explain the impact on soil health, water runoff, and biodiversity.
Ready to Build?
3 Unique methods Labels planned Materials gathered
Teacher Approval
Sustainable Model Rubric
Farm Feature Rubric
3D Sustainable Farming Assessment
Total Score / 50
Student
________________________________________________
Period
__________
| Criteria | Exemplary (10) | Proficient (8) | Developing (6) | Limited (4) |
|---|
| Scientific Accuracy | Models are accurate and correctly reflect 3 strategies. | Mostly accurate with minor scale or placement issues. | Includes 3 methods; 1 is incorrectly represented. | Major errors in representation of strategies. |
| Labeling & Vocab | All labels present, professional, and clear. | All labels present; brief but accurate. | Some labels missing or vague descriptions. | Labels are largely missing or contain major errors. |
| Craftsmanship | Creative use of materials; sturdy and detailed. | Neat construction; effective material choice. | Average effort; model is somewhat messy. | Lacks effort; fragile or disorganized. |
| Site Plan Rationale | Deep analysis of how methods prevent erosion. | Clear explanation with correct scientific terms. | General description without scientific depth. | Minimal justification or off-topic explanation. |
| Planning (Planner) | Fully complete, neat, and teacher-approved. | Complete with clear sketch and materials list. | Partially complete; sketch is unclear. | Organizer was not used or is mostly blank. |
Instructor Feedback
50-45: Master Architect (A) 44-40: Skilled Planter (B) 39-35: Developing Farmer (C) 34-0: Apprentice (D/F)
