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Learning Outcomes
By the end of this activity, learners will:
Develop proper sample collection techniques for water and sediment
Separate sample solutions to isolate for plastics via density separation
Visually inspect plastics with a microscope to identify plastic-type and colour
Curriculum Connections
Alberta Grade 8 Unit E: Freshwater and Saltwater Systems
4 - Analyze human impacts on aquatic systems; and identify the roles of science and technology in addressing related questions, problems and issues
Grade 9 Unit C: Environmental Chemistry
1 - Investigate and describe, in general terms, the role of different substances in the environment in supporting or harming humans and other living things
Biology 20, 30 All Units
STS outcome (science, technology and society): explain how science and technology have both intended and unintended consequences for humans and the environment
B1. The Physical Environment and Human Activities: analyse various interactions between physical processes, phenomena, and events and human activities in Canada.
C1. The Sustainability of Resources: analyse impacts of resource policy, resource management, and consumer choices on resource sustainability in Canada
Length of Activity
1 - 2 hours
Materials List
Eco 360 notebook (we recommend asking learners to maintain a notebook for this program to write down reflections as they go through the program)
Water source
Plankton net (student grade with a mesh size between 25 and 150 μm diameter)
Meter stick to measure the water flow rate
PFDs or any other required safety devices
1L glass bottle
Aluminum foil
Metal shovel
Glass jar
Scale
PE or PP plastic with a bright colour
500 mL Beaker
Microscope (from 2x to 40x objective lens) or magnifier
