Begin by discussing the origin of plastics and their creation from fossil fuels. Engage students with a question: 'Can you imagine a world without plastics?' to spark curiosity.
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Plastics
Learning Objectives
- Understand the origin of plastics and how they are made from fossil fuels.
- Identify various properties of plastics that make them suitable for different applications.
- Recognize the environmental challenges associated with single-use plastics and the importance of sustainable alternatives.
- Explore the diverse uses of plastics in everyday products and their advantages, such as being lightweight and moldable.
Introduction and Hook
Show a short video clip on the 'Diversity of Materials – Plastics' to highlight the properties and uses of plastics. This video helps students visualize the transformation of plastics from fossil fuels and their applications.
Direct Instruction
Explain the properties of plastics that make them suitable for different applications, such as being lightweight and moldable. Discuss how these properties are advantageous in everyday products.
Introduce the environmental challenges of single-use plastics and the importance of sustainable alternatives. Use the video 'The Problems with Single-use Plastics' to illustrate the impact of plastic waste.
Guided Exploration
Facilitate a class discussion on the diverse uses of plastics in everyday life. Encourage students to share examples of plastic products they use daily and their benefits.
Watch the video 'Diversity of Materials – Rubber' to compare and contrast the properties of plastics and rubber. This helps students understand the unique characteristics of different materials.
Hands-On Activity
Conduct a classification activity where students sort various objects into categories of plastics and non-plastics. Discuss the reasons for their classifications.
Use the 'Measuring the Volume of Liquids' assessment to explore the concept of volume with plastic containers. This activity helps students understand the practical applications of plastic in measuring and storage.
Independent Practice
Assign students to research and present on a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics. Encourage creativity in finding innovative solutions.
Check for Understanding
Use the 'What Is Matter?' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of plastics as a type of matter. This assessment reinforces the concept of matter and its properties.
Review and Reflection
Reflect on the environmental impact of plastics and discuss ways to reduce plastic waste in daily life. Encourage students to share their thoughts and ideas.
Assessment and Extension
Administer the 'States of Matter' assessment to test students' knowledge of the different states of matter, including plastics. This assessment helps consolidate their understanding of the topic.
Encourage students to take the Unit Quiz to assess their comprehension of the entire unit on Matter and Materials.
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