Lesson overview
This lesson asks students to share what they know about ocean plastics pollution and sort ideas into the categories true, false or uncertain, leading to the realisation that there might be different agendas for the information we receive in the media. Student’s research and present about an ‘Ocean hero’ and their achievements. They then discuss the ways in which they can make a difference by making a pledge to change one thing.
Learning outcomes
- Discuss ideas and respond to others
- Understand facts about plastics pollution
- Explain why it is important to know the validity of a source
- Research and present information
- Share knowledge and understanding through making a pledge
Lesson steps
- Plastics pollution discussion (15 mins)
Students take part in a whole class discussion about ocean plastics pollution and look at pictures demonstrating the how dangerous plastics can be in the ocean.
- True, false or uncertain (15 mins)
Students play a game of true, false or uncertain; they are presented with a statement and must discuss with their group which category it falls into. They then consider what the motivation for interested parties might be to promote or embellish ideas.
- Ocean heroes (20 mins)
In groups students are allocated an ‘Ocean hero’ to read about and then report back to the class in a verbal presentation.
- Pledges (10 mins)
Students investigate what they can do to make a difference to ocean plastics pollution and write a pledge to share on a classroom display.