At-Home Upcycle Projects from Climate Superstars
Activity - Classroom
GradesK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Visual and Performing Arts
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF)
What it is
- This resource from The National Environmental Education Foundation provides instructions for six upcycling projects that will turn discarded items into something useful.
- Each project includes step-by-step instructions with pictures.
Teaching tips
Positives
- These six projects are easy to do with elementary and middle school students.
- Making bird feeders or shirt coasters would be an excellent introduction to the concept of upcycling.
Prerequisites
- Each project requires different materials.
- Younger students will need assistance with some of the projects.
Differentiation & Implementation
- After creating a project together, students could find something in their home or school that is frequently thrown away and find a way to upcycle it as a project.
- Students could hold an "Upcycled Fair" to display their creations. Students could provide written directions for visitors to take home to complete their own upcycle project.
- Other resources on this topic include this ClimateScience course on personal actions that fight climate change and this video on recycling challenges.
From the scientist review
Materials like pins, wire cutters, scissors, and adhesives used in these activities can cause injury to students if not properly monitored by an adult. The resource is recommended for teaching.
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