Great Garbage Patch: Pollution Lesson
Created by Teacher(s): Tana Shepard, Oregon Educators for Climate Education|Published on: March 30, 2023
Grades: 3, 4, 5
Type: Lesson Plan
Subjects: Social Studies, English Language Arts
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Created by: Oregon Climate Education Hub teachers
Region: North America, USA - West, United States, Oregon, Oregon Coast
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
In this lesson, students learn about plastic pollution and write a letter to a local official advocating for a solution to plastic pollution.
Step 1 - Inquire: Students complete the Anticipation Guide individually or in groups, responding to true or false prompts and answering one question about plastic pollution and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
Step 2 - Investigate: Students conduct research on plastic pollution and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and complete the RACES writing organizer.
Step 3 - Inspire: Students write a letter to a local official advocating for action on plastic pollution.
Share: This lesson plan is licensed under Creative Commons.
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Teacher Writer
Tana Shepard
Tana Shepard is a K–12 Climate, Energy, and Conservation Teacher with 24 years of teaching experience. She holds a Bachelor of Education and Master of Education from Pacific University. Tana coordinates the 4J/EWEB Education Partnership Program in Eugene, Oregon, and is a founding member of Oregon Educators for Climate Education (OECE). She has extensive experience leading climate education, environmental stewardship, outdoor learning, renewable energy, and conservation initiatives, helping students and educators build the knowledge and skills needed to create a more sustainable future.
Oregon Educators for Climate Education
Oregon Educators for Climate Education (OECE) is a statewide group of educators working toward Oregon legislation that would mandate the integration and infusion of climate change for PK-12 education across all core subject areas.
Our steering committee is comprised of current and retired K-12 educators, as well as high school students. While most of us reside and work in the Willamette Valley, we are seeking connection and input from stakeholders from regions across Oregon. We are inclusive and invite diverse voices to join us!
Website: https://www.oregonclimateed.org/
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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