Fourth grade is the cornerstone of StopWaste's educational programming. Through a two-year partnership, teachers work with StopWaste educators on collaborative planning, student-led climate action projects, and campus waste reduction. Students engage with the complete 4Rs Curriculum, visit working transfer stations, and become "garbologists" who understand how everyday choices affect the environment.

4th Grade Programs

Students looking out at a garbage pit

Transfer Station Field Trips

Join StopWaste for a two-hour visit to a working transfer station where students walk through material recovery facilities, see the garbage pit, and explore the 4Rs through hands-on lessons and activities.

Field trips offered at two locations: Davis Street (San Leandro) and Fremont
Free transportation for Alameda County public schools
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4th Grade Curriculum & Resources

Doing the 4Rs Curriculum

Comprehensive activity guide with 24 standards-aligned lessons across five thematic units:

Students investigate the resources needed to produce everyday products, distinguishing between renewable and nonrenewable resources.

Examines consumption habits, covering packaging waste, paper usage, environmental impact on habitats, and personal values.

Students explore creative ways to reuse items before recycling, creating projects like quilts from fabric scraps.

Learners discover community recycling options and how materials transform into new products.

The most extensive unit covers decomposition, composting benefits, soil improvement, and worm bin establishment.

Materials Available

  • Complete curriculum guide (English and Spanish)
  • Vocabulary lists (English and Spanish)
  • Pictographs (bilingual)
  • Supporting videos
Explore the 4Rs Curriculum

Additional Resources

The Amazing Garbologist Adventure

How to Go from Scientist to Food Rescue Action Hero! In this journal you will join four garbologists who ask questions about how garbage affects people living in Alameda County and around the world. What in the world is a garbologist? A garbologist is a scientist who studies garbage. Why study garbage? Because there is a LOT of it. And more is created every day! Download in Spanish Download in Chinese

Educational Videos for Schools

4Rs Curriculum Videos These videos accompany the Doing the 4Rs Curriculum and can be used as standalone resources. 4Rs Action Heroes Videos Short character videos bringing each of the 4Rs to life through the League of Action Heroes. These videos were created by students as part of their 4Rs action project. Cafeteria Sorting Videos Training videos for students and staff Food Share Table Videos Videos to support food share tables in K-12 schools.

Meet the League of 4Rs Action Heroes

The League of 4Rs Action Heroes brings environmental concepts to life for students across Alameda County and beyond. Each hero embodies one of the 4Rs, with unique powers, backstories, and sidekicks that help students remember and practice waste reduction. Meet the Heroes Request Materials