Activity Introduction
Quick summary: Students look at waste and the time it takes to decompose. Students are asked to order a selection of waste materials into the time it takes for them to break down. In the closing activity, they will act as archeologists undertaking a dig of a kitchen 100 years in the future and are asked to describe the condition of the items that they find.
Following this lesson plan is an ideal way for your school to take part in Schools Clean Up Day or a Clean Up on any day of the year. You’ll be joining thousands of amazing teachers in making a difference and creating positive environmental change.
Learning intentions:
- Students raise their awareness of the rate of waste material breakdown and how this can take many, many years
- Students build an understanding of the differences between biodegradable and non-biodegradable items
- Students take responsibility for their own waste footprint.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content description: This lesson can be aligned with a variety of learning areas and year levels.
General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking.
Cross-curriculum priority: Sustainability OI.3, OI.8.
Topic: Clean Up, Waste.
Time required: 60 mins
Resources required:
- Drawing materials or modelling clay
- Waste breakdown flashcards.
Keywords: Litter, waste, breakdown, decomposition.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
Teacher Preparation