Introduction into the Plastic World
Plastics are all around us—in packaging, clothes, phones, cars, and even in healthcare. But how much do we really know about them?
In this lesson, learners will discover what plastics are, how they were developed over time, and how their structure affects their properties. They will explore the many different types of plastics and learn how to recognize them in everyday objects. By looking at real-life examples and engaging in hands-on activities, they will investigate where plastics appear in modern life and what makes them so useful.
Along the way, the lesson encourages learners to think critically about the reasons we rely on plastics, how they compare to other materials, and what consequences their use brings to the environment. It highlights both the benefits and the challenges plastics present, while guiding learners toward more responsible and sustainable choices.
Lesson Learning Outcomes
After completion of this lesson, learners will be able to:
Define and Identify Plastics:
- Explain what plastics are, including their basic chemical structure (monomers and polymers).
- Identify and categorize common plastics using resin identification codes (e.g., PET, HDPE, PVC).
Classify and Evaluate Household Plastics:
- List and classify at least five types of plastics commonly found in household items.
- Distinguish between recyclable and non-recyclable plastics based on their properties and codes.
Trace the Historical Development of Plastics:
- Describe key milestones in the history of plastics, from natural polymers to synthetic materials.
- Recognize the historical context and inventors behind major developments in plastic science.
Explain Applications Across Industries:
- Illustrate the diverse uses of plastics in various sectors such as packaging, automotive, electronics, textiles, and construction.
- Connect plastic properties to their practical applications in everyday life and industry.
Investigate Physical and Chemical Properties:
- Conduct experiments to analyze properties such as flexibility, durability, strength, and chemical resistance of various plastic types.
- Evaluate how these characteristics influence the selection of plastics for specific uses.
Reflect on the Necessity and Impact of Plastics:
- Critically assess the necessity of plastic items used in daily life.
- Explore viable alternatives to plastic materials (e.g., glass, metal, biodegradable materials) and their trade-offs.
Develop Critical Thinking Toward Material Choices:
- Make informed judgments about when plastic use is essential, and when sustainable alternatives might be preferable.
- Compare advantages and disadvantages of plastics versus alternative materials.
