Ocean Plastic Unit Introduction & Description
Dive into the Ocean Plastic Unit, an engaging and educational resource designed to inspire students from kindergarten through eighth grade to explore the critical issues of plastic pollution and its impact on marine life. This unit blends captivating videos with hands-on lesson plans to help students understand the science behind plastic waste, its effects on the environment, and the innovative solutions being developed to address these challenges. With a focus on fostering environmental stewardship and critical thinking, this unit empowers students to become problem-solvers and advocates for a cleaner, healthier planet.
This unit offers an immersive and interdisciplinary approach to learning, aligning with NGSS and NCAS standards while providing age-appropriate content for students across all grade levels. Perfect for fostering environmental awareness and creativity, the Ocean Plastic Unit is a valuable resource for classrooms seeking to inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Meet the Boneheads: This fun and engaging segment introduces students to the issue of plastic pollution through a lighthearted animated adventure. Accompanied by an art lesson plan, students will use recycled materials to create eco-collages that illustrate the journey of plastic waste and its impact on the environment.
It’s Your Planet Too: In this documentary segment, students dive deeper into the problem of plastic pollution, exploring its effects on marine life, particularly sea turtles, and the environment. This segment is paired with a social justice lesson plan, where students research and write about the broader impact of pollution on human communities and the environment.
Think Like Engineers: This segment highlights real-world engineering solutions to plastic pollution, such as green technologies like the Interceptor and FRED. It is paired with a STEAM-focused engineering design lesson plan, where students will brainstorm, design, and prototype their own solutions to clean up plastic waste.
You Have the Power: Wrapping up the unit, this segment features an inspiring music video and an outdoor cleanup activity that empowers students to take action in their local communities. By participating in hands-on activities, students learn how small actions can make a big difference in preventing pollution and protecting marine ecosystems.