|
One word: Plastics
Plastic is ubiquitous in our lives, and learning more about its production and disposal can help us make more informed choices.
We're pleased to announce two new lessons on plastics, adding to our growing portfolio on materials science, chemistry, and design. The Curriculum and Resource Center (CRC) is our comprehensive, online collection of interdisciplinary resources used to support a variety of integration approaches for K20 sustainability education. Contact us to learn more download sample materials by signing up for a guest pass.
The Life Cycle of Two Plastics (grades 6+): Learners investigate the concepts of biodegradation and chemical structures by comparing the life cycle of biotic and abiotic plastics. The lesson includes an experiment, guided reading selections, graphic organizers and formative assessments.  Biomagnifcation and Plastics (grade 9+): A simulation paired with reading selections help learners explore the concept of biomagnifcation with a focus on "body burden" and the chemistry of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). The lesson also examines the international treaty the Stockholm Convention as a response to POPs, and supports learners to write a policy paper on the issue. This curriculum on plastics and ocean pollution will also be incorporated into international work with hazardous chemicals and waste as part of the UN Safe Planet Campaign by Central European nonprofit Art Mill. It will be included in their presentation in Geneva this April and built into future programming.
|
