Green Deeds Days 8 & 9 and higher level thinking

One of the pieces we've used with the 1st graders this week as we talk about recycling is video footage of the great Pacific garbage patch.  Once the kids see the garbage, twice the size of Texas, swirling and realize where their plastic can end up there is a sense of commitment to keeping plastic out of the environment. One of the students shouted out, "Texas is the second biggest state in the U.S."  1st graders have a great capacity to remember data so now is definitely the time to form good habits.

They are especially moved by the photo of a bird which has died from ingesting too much of the plastic.  A bright red lighter is clearly one of the items he consumed.  Following the presentation we talk about the ways we can help.  The obvious responses included personal responsibility, and maybe writing letters to try to keep companies from using so much plastic, but the most important role that these little citizens can have is in helping educate themselves and others.  These are definitely common core higher level thinking skills!

I always share my personal Green Deeds for the Day and ask them what they have done.  I acknowledged that I wrote a letter to Mary Kay about over-packaging in my order. As is often the case, the children helped me realize that since the beginning of this project WE  have been engaged in educating, each others. 

When I went to purchase plants and seeds at my favorite garden center  for our school garden I shared that my sense of weeds had changed and that I now viewed them with a respect due plants that were indigenous and important parts of the ecosystem.  Then we talked about why I wanted to plant cabbage. When I explained that I wanted the kids to see the life cycle of the cabbage moth, she was appalled. "I spray for those," she said.  This gave an opening to discuss the value of insects and natural balance and not using pesticides or herbicide to control them!   While I don't think I won a convert, she was thoughtful, "Well, you've certainly given me something to think about" she said.  This is all a teacher can hope for.  To give someone food for thought.