Connect students directly to the concept in a personal way. Capture students' attention by initiating a group problem-solving activity before delivery of instruction. Begin with a situation that is familiar to students and builds on what they already know. Construct a learning experience that allows diverse and personal student responses. Facilitate the work of cooperative teams of students.
Sort through trash. Separate recyclable and reusable items.
Objective: Children will realize how trash affects their lives.
Activity: Collect the trash in the classroom for a couple of days before beginning the unit. Dump the trash in the floor and have the students (in small groups) sort through it and decide what may be used again and what may be recycled. Let the children come up with innovative ideas on how the trash can be reused (box puppets, box cars, etc.).
