Activity: ACT CDS – Different Containers – Early Learning

Quick summary: Children interact with a range of materials and consider the properties of materials used in packaging and container packaging. They explore what materials can be recycled including what can be recycled with the ACT Container Deposit Scheme (ACT CDS). They then work together to create new bins or labelling to reflect which materials are eligible for recycling.

The ACT Container Deposit Scheme (ACT CDS) was introduced by the ACT Government in 2018 as a litter reduction initiative. Participants collect and return their eligible drink containers at an ACT CDS return point for a 10 cent refund on each. For further information about the ACT CDS, please visit actcds.com.au

This lesson plan has been developed by Cool Australia, in collaboration with Exchange for Change, the scheme coordinator for the ACT CDS, as part of a suite of curriculum-linked resources for teachers that support schools’ participation in the scheme and enable teachers to discuss the environmental benefits of the scheme as part of their sustainability lessons.

EYLF Learning Outcome	Elaborations
Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to the world	4. Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment.
Outcome 4: Children are involved and confident learners	2. Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving, enquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating
Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators	4. Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work

This lesson is part of the wider unit of work ACT CDS School Resources.

Time required: 60 mins.

Resources required:

• A handful of pebbles or gumnuts – ensure these are kept in a safe place away from children.
• A range of waste items that vary in colour, weight, shape and texture. These could include some used paper, newspaper, a small plastic tub, plastic bottle, a milk carton, and a paper bag. Make sure all items are clean and sharp edges are covered with masking tape. Alternatively, use these cards with images of recyclable and non-recyclable containers.
• Colouring sheet
• Images of eligible drink containers for the ACT CDS, to colour in.

Keywords: Waste, resources, reuse, recycle, recycling, materials, hands-on, investigative, ACT container deposit scheme.

The team at Cool Australia continually reviews and refines our Early Learning resources in line with expert advice and current educational practices.