Activity: Plastics on trial: BabyLegs
Description | 2 hours
Media: Everyone is a researcher! Join researchers at the Civic Laboratory for Environmental Action Research (CLEAR) while they investigate the sources of plastic in our waterways using DIY research tools. Learn how plastic is an environmental justice issue and who is more affected by plastic pollution.
- Note: There are two versions of Plastics on trial. The video is the same, but the activities are different. "Plastics on trial: BabyLegs" is meant for high school students, and "Plastics on trial: Ice Cream Scoop" is more appropriate for elementary students.
Activity: Makerspace meets citizen science - Students create their own microplastic data collection device (called "BabyLegs") by following the step-by-step instructions. Next, students use their data collection device for a research project. Students follow a step-by-step guide to design their field study. Critical thinking skills are then put to the test as students develop a research question and hypothesis, collect data in the field, and analyze their findings.
See the media Each activity is linked to a piece of media. You can watch the video by visiting the Ocean School website or by visiting the direct link here. If you like this activity you can see all of the available resources in the Ocean School Resource Catalogue. Everything in Ocean School is provided free to the public.
About Ocean School
This is a free educational resource from the Canadian Government about the ocean, through the Ocean Frontier Institute at Dalhousie University and the National Film Board of Canada. Ocean School provides free, media-rich, ocean-based resources in multiple subjects for students in grades 5–12. Created by educators, scientists and storytellers, these interactive learning materials help students understand our influence on the ocean and the ocean’s influence on us.
Available in French
Check out the Resources tab for the French activity sheets and media.
Or check out the French Ocean School page.
Please note: Ocean School activities are not stand-alone lessons (they do not cover all aspects of one topic or subject) but instead supplement learning through dynamic and engaging experiences.
