Project: Drowning in Trash
Health Topics
Environment
Specific Health Community Problem
MV generates tons of trash that all have to be transported off-island.
Guided Discovery
Introduced the problem of waste on MV. Data analysis, used MV Commission data. Got more recent data from MVRDD.
Investigation/Research
Presentation by MVRD director about what happens with the trash and how much is generated. Toured the transfer station with staff person who described the process, problems, etc. Brainstormed solutions (e.g. additional water bottle filling stations in the school, more recycling bins, clothing swap.)
Lesson Plan with YRBS Data
Students look at the MV Health data, regarding solid waste on MV from 2008-2016. They consider how the different types of materials are dealt with (e.g. food waste, co-mingles, newspaper, cardboard, construction material, etc.) Students are informed about the new MA law requiring the recycling of textiles. After looking at all the possibilities, they will brainstorm possible projects to impact the amount of actual trash disposed of (rather than recyclables..
Solution
Organized a clothing swap.
Community Impacts
Hundreds of pounds of perfectly good kids clothing was reused rather than disposed of.
Connection to Curriculum
AASL Standards: Inquire (Build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing strategies for solving problems. Collaborate (Workeffectively with others to broaden perspectives and work toward common goals.
SEL Competencies
Relationship Skills
Specific SEL Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes
Relationships skills, decision making, social awareness & goal setting.
District Name
Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools
School Name
Edgartown School
Class/Program
7th grade enrichment class
Number of Teachers
1
Number of Students
20
Grade Level(s)
6-8
Duration/Intensity
1 quarter (10 weeks,) 1 day/week (45 minutes) x 2
Community Partners
MV Refuse District, Edgartown Public Library
Content Areas
Science & Technology Engineering