Where's the Impact?

Activity time: 60-90 mins
Level:4 -6
Prior knowledge: Knowledge…

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Activity time: 60-90 mins
Level:4 -6
Prior knowledge: Knowledge of stages of the life cycle of a product.
Subject: DT
Curriculum links: Environmental impact and sustainability of products/research and presentation skills
Preparation time: 20 minutes spent converting the activity sheet to a word document which could be edited by learners, finding a youtube video about aluminium production and finding a website about production of aluminium cans.
Extra resources: Video-project/interactive whiteboard, aluminium can, Youtube video about how aluminium is produced
Commentary:
I started this activity with a mixed ability Year 9 class in a classroom with computers. I introduced the concept of life cycle analysis using the presentation and discussed some examples of everyday products such as mobile phones, cars, etc.
The focus for the main activity was a simple product, an aluminium drinks can. Converting the activity sheet to a word document made it possible for learners to attempt the tasks described in the presentation using computers. The use of a video about aluminium production helped learners understand and all were able to carry out the task effectively. Some used the website I suggested to research production of aluminium cans.
There was not enough time in the lesson to finish the main activity so it was continued in the next lesson. I finished the lesson with a short question and answer plenary. Overall, the activity was enjoyed by learners.
 

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