Sort the Trash

In this Google Slide activity, students sort the waste into proper categories: trash, recycling & compost. You can also print and cut the game pieces to play offline as a sorting game, or try it with "real" items for a hands-on version!

Grade Level: 3-6

Time: 30 - 45 minutes

Learning Standards: ESS3.C, MP.4, RF4, SL1

[Template] Sort the Trash.pdf

What are we learning?

This is a great activity to get participants thinking more deeply about everyday items and what it really means to throw something "away."
This activity builds analytical and critical thinking skills, while students identify what materials different items are made of, their key characteristics, and accurate categorization.
Sort the Trash is a great way to cover the solid waste crisis that humans have created and deepen students' understanding of their daily environmental impacts, along with some solutions.

Materials Needed

Google Slides
Printable card deck

Here's what to do

Make a copy of the Google Slide below and give each participant a copy in Google classroom. (Or, send a copy to participants via email).
You may also go through this activity together as a group and work on it collaboratively, or assign in small groups of students.
It can also be printed as a PDF (linked above) to use offline, without having to log into Google classroom.

What to expect

Deeper reflection about personal choices, their impacts, trade-offs, and pros & cons
Systems thinking: Making cause & effect connections; developing understanding of resource use & consumption; making connections with natural resources, supply chains,
New appreciation for everyday items and their footprint on the planet. (Water, Land & Air)
Participants to share finished Google Slide boards and explain why they chose items they did and if there may be better ecological choices.
Lesson can be further developed and expanded upon through group discussion.