PLAN A CLEAN UP WITH YOUR STUDENTS
A litter cleanup on your school grounds or nearby is a great way for students to connect with and learn about the importance of protecting their local environment. Plus, they are simple to plan and a great way to get outside!
Collecting data during your cleanup is a great way to help students engage in meaningful scientific practices. In addition, after data collection you can have groups analyze their data and draw conclusions. In this way, a trash cleanup can align well with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). For helpful tips and activities to enhance your cleanup, check out the activity guide page!
Here are some tips on how to plan a cleanup with your students.
Materials
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Trash bags or buckets
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Gloves
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Data collection sheet (download here)
General Tips
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Consider leading a litter cleanup right on your school grounds since this is simple and can be the most meaningful location choice.
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Have an action plan in place and communicate expectations and your plan to your students before going to the cleanup site. This might include safety reminders, what groups the students will be working in, how long the cleanup will last, a preview of the data sheet, behavioral standards, how you will get their attention when you need it, and other reminders.
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You may want to have your students work in pairs or in small groups.
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Depending on your class, you may want to assign each pair or group an area to focus on within the cleanup location.
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Depending on the age of your students and the location of your cleanup, you may want to have extra adult supervision to help ensure the safety of your class.
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Remind your students to be careful and not to pick up any sharp or hazardous materials.
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Remind your students to dress appropriately for the cleanup. Depending on the weather forecast, they may want to be prepared with sunscreen, hats or jackets. You may want to also have your students wear closed-toe shoes depending on where your are conducting your cleanup.
Resources
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Check out these activity guides to complement your cleanup