Keeping the holidays more eco-friendly
An interesting article; it provides suggestions and resources for how we can keep the holidays more eco-friendly. The article also provides statistics on how much extra plastic and waste happen between Thanksgiving and Christmas in the U.S. It’s a pretty staggering amount and had me looking up DIY sustainable Christmas decorations and gift wrapping in minutes.
Also incredibly disheartening to read that only 9% of all the plastics ever made have actually been recycled.
I could easily see this article as a jumping off point for discussion and then some language activities, such as practice with giving directions on making homemade gifts or sustainable decorations.
Also, if you’re feeling inspired here is one resource I found on DIY sustainable holiday decorations.
This is great Miranda! Yes, I can totally see this as a reading to start discussing issues related to the holidays, and the consumerism around it, tie it to environment and I like the second article you shared about DIY projects. The two articles complement each other very nicely and would make a good lesson plan for all levels and ages.
Thank you, Miranda! I love the wreath made from old cards and the Furoshiki wraps. I agree with Deniz that these would easily be great class materials.
Here’s a short video on how to do Furoshiki wraps (lots of authentic examples of the imperative) that could become an EDpuzzle to go along with the readings. Students could wrap something following the instructions and take a photo of their results as homework.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTrip8N9GR4
Thanks for this, Rebecca! Wrapping paper, if laminated, cannot be recycled and this is a thoughtful alternative.
I remember in grade school we had Sally Foster wrapping paper fundraisers every single year. It became this weird cycle of pressure and guilt to sell and buy wrapping paper. I stopped selling it after 6th grade and our stock of wrapping paper lasted well into my college years.
Thanks for sharing this video Rebecca! I love these wraps!
Thank you Miranda. I can see my students making these creative decorations and making posters in language classes or extracurriculum language corners!
This is great, Miranda! I made the Christmas Pomanders (the oranges with cloves) and my students had so much lot fun creating their own designs.
I think this is a necessary topic because of how wasteful the holidays can become. Encouraging students to shop at local stores instead of buying online, which can come in excessive packaging.