Seal the Loop - Marine waste breakdown

Australian curriculum content descriptions:

Year 5 Science:

• With guidance, plan appropriate investigation methods to answer questions or solve problems (ACSIS086)
• Decide which variable should be changed and measured in fair tests and accurately observe, measure and record data, using digital technologies as appropriate (ACSIS087)
• Compare data with predictions and use as evidence in developing explanations (ACSIS218)
• Suggest improvements to the methods used to investigate a question or solve a problem (ACSIS091)
• Communicate ideas, explanations and processes in a variety of ways, including multi-modal texts (ACSIS093)

Year 6 Science:

• With guidance, plan appropriate investigation methods to answer questions or solve problems (ACSIS103)
• Decide which variable should be changed and measured in fair tests and accurately observe, measure and record data, using digital technologies as appropriate (ACSIS104)
• Compare data with predictions and use as evidence in developing explanations (ACSIS221)
• Suggest improvements to the methods used to investigate a question or solve a problem (ACSIS108)
• Communicate ideas, explanations and processes in a variety of ways, including multi-modal texts (ACSIS110)

Syllabus Outcomes: ST3-4WS. 

Time required: 60 mins, this experiment will take several months and can be revisited at several points during this time.

Level of teacher scaffolding: High – assist students with experiment.

Each group will need the following items:

• 2 buckets of water
• Salt
• 2 items of 3 different types of waste (see list in Teacher or Student worksheets)
• Student worksheet

Following this lesson plan is an ideal way for your school to introduce Zoos Victoria’s Seal the Loop program. You’ll be joining other amazing teachers in making a difference and creating positive environmental change. Go to Zoo Education Online to find further support for you to help you develop your own Seal the Loop program.