Bioplastics (non-statutory Climate Change & Sustainability)
I can describe how long it takes for plastics to decompose and how to make an alternative degradable bioplastic.
- Year 5
Bioplastics (non-statutory Climate Change & Sustainability)
I can describe how long it takes for plastics to decompose and how to make an alternative degradable bioplastic.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- It takes up to 500 years for plastics to decompose.
- Discarded plastics are causing problems in our seas and on our land, for animals including humans.
- Scientists have discovered ways to make bioplastics or biodegradable plastics.
- Bioplastics can be made from starch.
- Scientists can observe bioplastics over time to find out how long it takes them to decompose.
Keywords
Plastic - Plastic is a material which is made from crude oil and can be moulded into different shapes.
Decompose - To decompose is to break down or decay.
Degradable - If something is degradable, it can be broken down into the simple parts that made it.
Bioplastic - A bioplastic is a plastic made from materials which come from sustainable sources such as plants.
Observe - To observe is to look very closely and use other senses too.
Common misconception
Bioplastics do not cause any environmental problems.
Teaching slides explain what the limitations of current bioplastics are, and that scientists are still working on their development.
Equipment
Cooker, small saucepan, wooden spoon, teaspoons, beakers, a small plate, water, cornflour, glycerine and white vinegar.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these are materials?
Q2.Which of the toys in the images are made from plastic?
Q3.Which of these materials woud it be best to make tyres for a car from?
Q4.Which of these materials would be best to make a water bottle from?
Q5.Which of these materials are suitable to make a greenhouse?
