Recycling Creations and Reuse/Swap

Our most recent science unit was on Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. We analyzed our trash from snack time and we talked about how we could do a better job reducing, reusing and recycling. We read books about how to reduce, reuse and recycle and we watched videos about how to do this better too. The students then chose recycled items and then made them into something else! Just like Oscar the Grouch, we love trash!  Students in room 101 had a wonderful time creating new items with the trash we collected.  We made vehicles,  coin jars, binoculars, robots, maracas and fun toys!  

To take our reusing one step further we had a Reuse/Swap with recycled toys and items that the students brought in to swap with other students in our classroom.  Many have heard the phrase, "One man's trash is another's treasure."  Today we lived it!  Students were very enthused about our reuse event on Friday. 

This was a great culmination of our efforts to learn about, explore and experience the benefits of reduce, reuse, recycle and repurpose.  Our class had a great discussion about why we brought our treasures in from home. In order to evaluate all of our options we took a walk through the display, careful to make note of all the choices with our eyes.  It certainly helped build the excitement.  We picked numbers to decide who would select items first.  Discussions following the trade were lively.  Everyone agreed it was great to have new things.  Equally important, we all agreed that if felt good to see our friends happy, to know we are saving the planet and not just throwing our unwanted items in the trash.

Students really seemed to find joy in giving and sharing with others.  We talked about other ways we can help each other and others.  We were notified by the Burlington Food Pantry that Pine Glen donated 668 pounds of food during the month of November! Room 101 has been generous, thank you!