<< Previous Page | Page 5 of 12 | Next Page >>
|
Learning objectives |
Activities |
Curriculum Links |
Resources |
|
To introduce the concept of different types of plastic polymer and to identify them by the use of symbols and simple floatation tests. Illustrate the complexities of sorting plastics for recycling. |
Activity 1-identifying plastics by symbols or abbreviations on the packaging Activity 2 - differentiating between different types of plastic by floatation test - Evaluating the usefulness of this technique for sorting plastics Activity 3 - illustration of the diverse use of this group of materials Extension Activities - making a fish mobile from plastic bottles and making a "ship in a bottle" display |
Activities 1, 2 and 3 Science (materials) Extension activity - Art and DT |
Plastic information sheet Selection of plastic wrapping and containers Samples of different types of plastic Ext.1 2 litre drinks bottle, scissors, thread, tape, gummed shapes Ext.2 2 litre drinks bottle, scissors, decorative tape, cardboard |
Items in bold will need to be brought in from home.
Please note the extension activities require adult supervision.
Plastics are extremely versatile materials that have transformed the way many food items are packaged and stored. Because of the large variety of different polymers used in the manufacture of packaging and the low density of plastic containers several challenges exist for the recycling of post consumer plastics found in household waste. Waste plastics need to be sorted into the different polymer types before they can be recycled, the contamination of plastic food packaging and the relatively low temperatures used to reform the plastics make it unsuitable for direct recycling into other food containers. One solution is to sandwich the recovered plastic between two layers of virgin polymer. Not all types of plastic packaging can be reprocessed and collecting, sorting and transporting these lightweight items is not always practical or environmentally advantageous.
Plastic bottle recycling is becoming more widely available and the recovered plastic can be reprocessed into a variety of end uses such as fleece jackets, fencing posts or non-food containers. Unfortunately the use of the recycling loop symbol causes confusion, as it does not indicate that the material can practically be recycled or that it contains any recycled plastic content. Children should be aware of the distinction between potentially recyclable and items made from recovered plastic (e.g. recycled bin bags).
Activity 2 - The washing-up liquid is to reduce surface tension. The salt increases the density of the water. Polystyrene comes in two forms; dense as in yoghurt pots and aerated as in egg cartons and packaging. PET and one type of PS sink. The others float. PS begins to float as salt is added. Flotation is one of the main ways of separating plastics. Other methods are being developed which are quicker and easier.
You will need a 2 litre drink bottle, pair of scissors, string or thread, sticky tape, glue and decorating materials.
Method:
1. Take the top off the bottle
2. Squash the middle and cut as shown
3. Make two small holes in line with the top point and tie thread
4. Squash the points and hold in place with sticky tape
5. Decorate to your own design
Making a ship in a bottle is an old craft and very skilful. You can make your own model in a bottle the easy way!
Using sharp pointed scissors cut the end off a 2 litre plastic bottle. There is usually a rib near the bottom that will give you a guide for cutting.
Make whatever sort of model you like. It doesn't have to be a ship.
When you have finished put the bottom back with sticky tape and cover with a piece of braid. Make a stand out of two triangles of cardboard.
