Trash Traits

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In this activity on page 24, learners perform experiments to examine whether or not trash can float, blow around, or wash away. Then learners analyze the effects of these characteristics on marine debris in the environment. It is recommended that part of this activity is conducted outside, but can be also be done indoors when modified.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • "Trash Traits Results" handouts
  • Several pieces of plastic, glass, rubber, metal, paper, wood, and food trash items (such as banana peels, apple cores, etc.)
  • Two- or three-gallon bucket filled with water
  • 15-inch round table fan (or similar)
  • Large, shallow container (such as a large dishpan)
  • Watering can
  • Water

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
  • Life Sciences
    • Ecology
      • Ecosystems
      • Human Impact
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
      • Data Representation
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Gravity
    • States of Matter
      • Solids
      • Liquids
      • Gases
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Mass and Weight
      • Volume and Density
  • The Nature of Science
    • Science and Society
      • Risks and Benefits
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Informal Categories

  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Sheavly, Seba ; Reigster, Katie

Rights:

  • Public domain, ,

Funding Source:

  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, AB133F06CN0193