A major focus in my teaching for the past several  years has been about the environment. This year I wanted to focus specifically on the use of plastic in our society and the environmental degradation it’s causing. 

The students learned about plastic and the different types of plastic. 

• What types of plastic can be recycled

• How much plastic do they use at home?

• What are the students doing with their plastic?

• Where is the plastic going when recycled?

• What’s happening to the environment when the plastic is NOT recycled?

After the students learned about the issues surrounding plastic, I got the idea to work in conjunction with the art enrichment teacher at our school to design, create, and show case plastic costumes for a plastic fashion show. My ideas morphed into a project for all of the 5th grade classes who will be participating in the event. 

 

I want the students to be informed about the issues with plastic within our society and how it is negatively impacting the environment. I also want them to know that they have a voice and if we consciously make good choices with what we buy and consume, we can make a difference. 

 

They will learn communication with team members and how to manipulate the plastic to create their costumes. They are going to be sewing plastic together, so major patience will have to be put forth because that can be challenging. 

The students are to work in teams of two to design and create their plastic costumes. They are also going to be showcasing their designs along with the other 5th Grade classrooms in a fashion show to educate the younger students, and spread a positive message to our local community and world that something NEEDS to be done about our use of plastic. 

Through artistic creation and design, a very clear message can sent to the community that we need to take care of our environment. 

This educates others, builds community, creativity, and fosters team work and collaboration.