Sorting Smarter
Grade 5 | Grade 6
Summary
Three bins contain items that don’t belong… or do they? Students will need to think critically, question assumptions, and take responsibility to uncover the truth. This lesson builds leadership and awareness by turning students into recycling inspectors.
Thinking Concepts and Skills
- Identify sorting mistakes and explain why they matter.
- Apply knowledge of local sorting rules.
- Collaborate to develop and communicate solutions.
Lesson Materials
Matériel Pédagogique
Sorting Bingo
Students mark their cards using different colours based on which bin each item goes in: recycling, compost, or garbage.
The Good ‘Sort’ of Recycling
Sort and discuss materials as a class to learn what can go in the blue bin.
Don’t be a Litterbug
Let students get creative while learning about recycling by making bugs out of recyclables.
Colour me Blue
Have students colour and cutout pictures from the worksheet to get familiar with recyclables.
Your Recycling Journal
Have students document and reflect on their recycling habits to learn how they can improve.
Landfill Emissions
Understand landfill emissions and learn how reducing food waste can have positive effects.
Waste Audit
Measure how much waste your school is generating and identify opportunities to reduce it.
Word Search
Introduce students to common words and phrases related to recycling and environmentalism.