Grade 6-8

Students will conduct an experiment to try and create a polymer of their own using the scientific method. They will also investigate the properties of various manmade polymers.

Students will explore their current understanding of how color can be used to express feeling and emotion and will learn how visual artists use color. Next students will apply their knowledge to create a piece of art that expresses a particular emotion.

In this introductory lesson, slides will show examples of marine debris and also of Washed Ashore sculptures. Whenever possible, actual examples of marine debris and sculpture work will be provided. The lesson will conclude with a brainstorm activity to look at the plastics used in everyday life.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of the "Keepin' It Clean in 2017" project, which paired middle school students with master's students to learn about marine debris and create an action project to reduce it.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of educational efforts to reduce single-use plastics and provide students with the tools to communicate about marine debris issues through presentations at local schools and other events.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of a project through a local high school to conduct a research project on historic debris accumulation on the islands.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of the efforts of University of the Virgin Islands master's students' efforts to conduct outreach on single-use plastic and other marine debris reduction across the islands.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of student divers who conducted in-water debris removal projects.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of efforts to find new ways to communicate Marine Debris information through the University of the Virgin Islands.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of an annual "Trashion Show" where students incorporate debris into costumes and other art.

This lesson is best done after completion of one lesson in each of the sections Composition & Abundance, Sources & Transportation, and Impacts. Students will take everything they have learned about marine debris to create, develop, and complete a project to share their knowledge.

Students will reflect on how much plastic is part of their daily lives and explore creative ways to upcycle plastic bags and other thin, plastic materials into upcycled products to prevent them from potentially becoming marine debris.

Use scientific data to craft a way to reduce microplastics. Students will talk about the costs and benefits of their solutions to the marine environment and the people who use it.

<!--td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}-->  A summary of the Plastic-Free Island summit in 2017.

A summary on the VIMAS efforts to suppor the International Coastal Cleanup each year.