Strategies for Implementation
Time allotment: 8-10 class periods (Access to technology and class size may impact this timeframe.)
My students are sixth, seventh and eighth graders in a suburb of the Atlanta area. Most students are aware of dangers of pollution and the importance of recycling, but many don't exhibit awareness during the school day. Many students do not recycle at home and are not concerned about their role as consumers in the issue of protecting the earth. Implementation of this lesson will include class discussion, cooperative grouping with no more than four people per group (ideally two to three people to allow everyone an opportunity to have a leadership role), and individual research when students are required to bring personalized ideas to the discussion.
An excellent way to immerse yourself in the growing concern and immediacy for action is to watch the three part movie entitled "Toxic Garbage Island". It can be viewed online at http://www.vbs.tv/watch/toxic/garbage-island-1-of-3. This thought-provoking documentary produced by VBS.tv commands attention to the problem of plastic consumption and pollution in our waters. One must be warned that there are quite a few expletives, so I would recommend that only consenting adults watch this. It can be used in part to show students without audio, but be mindful of the language.
As time and resources permit, the utilization of electronic research databases and websites are ideal and will allow students the use of technology. Students should be able to summarize information and properly document their sources to encourage scholarly research. One resource that I use often for research is provided by the University System of Georgia (I am very proud of this invaluable resource). Georgia's virtual library can be accessed at www.galileo.usg.edu. Log in as a guest and enjoy! Technology has a strong presence in my classroom. Therefore, I would encourage you to use slideshows, spreadsheets, flyers, brochures, and even digital video editing to allow students to create visual representations of what they have learned. Clip art, templates for flyers, slideshows and brochures are available for educational usage at no charge at www.microsoft.com. Don't hesitate to use tutorials available on the website if you are not familiar with the resources available at this site.
To differentiate instruction, I would encourage gifted and accelerated learners to think more globally and use historical implications such as effects of trade, wars, and the economy to determine the roles they play in our consumer habits. (ex - How do wars affect what we buy? How do trade agreements affect what we are able to buy? Are there concerns with regulations in trade with other countries?) Students that may require more support should be encouraged to use real world problems on a smaller scale (ex - How much plastic is used during my breakfast? Does the amount of plastic used to package an object affect the price? How can I compare items before I buy them so that I am being a smart consumer?)
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