Week 1: We will learn about how plastic pollution is created. In this lesson, students will learn that not all plastic is bad but most of us use way more plastic than we need to. We will learn about single-use plastic and that it makes up almost half of all plastic trash. 

Week 2:  Students will learn that waste can be divided into three categories: landfill waste, recyclable waste and compostable waste. Most plastic isn't recycled properly. Students will learn what actually happens when you drop a piece of plastic in the recycling bin and how this affects our environment, specifically our marine animals. Most plastic ends up in landfills which eventually makes its way into our oceans. This is a major problem because plastic cannot decompose and can stay in the ocean forever. Furthermore, marine animals often mistake plastic for food. 

Week 3: Students will learn about micro-plastics and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. In this lesson, students will learn what happens to larger pieces of plastic when they break down. Students will learn about the gyres of plastic waste in the Pacific ocean. 

Week 4: Students will learn about several organizations that have committed to helping clean up plastic pollution. We will use a plastic inventory to record how much waste is created while preparing a family meal as well as simple ways we can reduce our plastic consumption. 

I will use Nearpod slides to present the information via text, images and video. Students will participate in the lesson by following along with the slides, by referring to and completing hand-outs, through discussion, and activities through Nearpod.