Her Stem Space

By: Avanti R

What happens when a plant dies in a forest? 

Most students who attended the Build a Mini Ecosystem workshop hosted by the Her STEM Space El Dorado Hills Chapter were surprised by the answer.

On June 5, students met at the El Dorado Hills Library to explore the science behind ecosystems by creating miniature habitats of their own. Led by Avanti Ramamoorthy and supported by volunteers from Oak Ridge High School, the workshop introduced participants to the interactions that allow ecosystems to survive.

Participants learned about ecosystem science‚ and how every living and non-living component interacts with each other‚ and how they work together to help the ecosystem survive․ 

Before building their ecosystems‚ students learned about the roles of producers‚ consumers‚ and decomposers․ Students were always aware that plants were producers and animals were consumers‚ but often surprised to learn about the importance of decomposers․ 

The group originally believed that fungi‚ worms‚ bacteria‚ and other decomposers only existed to break things down; they later came to realize that they were necessary for life․ Decomposers break down dead plants and animals and other organic material so that new organisms can thrive and not run out of necessary nutrients․ 

After exploring these concepts, students became ecosystem engineers themselves, using soil, rocks, plants, and other natural materials to design miniature ecosystems that demonstrated the relationships they had just learned about. Each ecosystem was very unique, encouraging creativity while reinforcing environmental science concepts.

By the end of the workshop, students left with more than just an ecosystem. They gained a new appreciation for the processes that keep our planet alive and a deeper understanding of how every organism contributes to a healthy ecosystem. 

Through hands-on events like this one, Her STEM Space continues to make STEM accessible and engaging while encouraging young learners to see science in the world around them.

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About the Author

Avanti Ramamoorthy is a rising junior at Oak Ridge High School and the chapter head of Her STEM Space in El Dorado Hills. Through Her STEM Space, she organizes hands-on workshops that introduce younger students to topics such as environmental science, engineering, public health, and the human body. Outside of organizing STEM events, Avanti enjoys playing golf, volunteering in her community, and developing new projects that encourage curiosity and learning.

Reach Her:

ramamoorthyavanti@gmail.com