Students learn about energy conservation and recycling and then repurpose recyclables to create a new invention.

Skills supporting learning standards: brainstorming, creative thinking, participating in group discussions

Using the Activity Sheet

1. To get started, ask students:

• What does reduce, reuse, recycle mean? (Answers may include reducing the amount of trash thrown out or items wasted, such as food; reusing items or donating them to create less trash; placing plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and paper in special bins so they can be made into new materials.)
• What is the goal of reduce, reuse, recycle? (To use less and create less waste. To reduce pollution.)
• How can we reduce? (Use the front and back of paper, bring canvas bags when shopping, etc.)
• What are items we can reuse and recycle? (Reuse answers may include plastic bags, clothes, toys, paper, etc. Recycle answers may include bottles, cans, paper, batteries, and electronics.)

2. Distribute copies of the activity sheet. Use recycled paper if possible. Review the instructions together.

3. Organize students into teams and provide them with recyclable items to choose from to create their inventions. Students may use one item or combine several items to create their new products.

4. Provide students with time to brainstorm and build their inventions.

5. Invite groups to share their projects.

Books to Explore

Where Does the Garbage Go? by Paul Showers

Every Day on Earth: Fun Facts That Happen Every 24 Hours by Steve Murrie and Matthew Murrie

You Can Save The Planet: 50 Ways You Can Make a Difference by Jacquie Wines

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