This mini-unit begins with an exploration of the natural resources that are used to make all of the everyday objects we use. Students begin to understand that most everyday objects, when traced back in the manufacturing process, need resources that are not infinite, and may not be renewable. Students also look at the recycling process, what it means, what the challenges are, and what happens with the trash we do not recycle.

The final activity in this unit is part of an important City initiative. By participating, your students become active citizens, gathering critical data. Students participate in a litter index that asks them to assess the trash in key areas around the school. These areas have been identified by the City of Philadelphia as part of the city-wide efforts to reduce trash in our neighborhoods. Students are given a data-collection form that, once completed, is submitted to the city.

Issue: Where is trash and litter collecting in our schoolyard? What can we do to help clean up our schoolyard?

This learning experience provides students with an opportunity to explore foundational concepts in environmental literacy. Students analyze the patterns of litter and trash on their school yard. Sharing this important data with the City of Philadelphia, students may also design their own response plan to help clean up their schoolyard.

What is a MWEE?

MWEE most commonly stands for a Meaning Watershed Educational Experience, a learner-centered educational framework used in K-12 schools. It is an active, hands-on framework that teaches students about local environmental and watershed issues. It is endorsed by the Pennsylvania Department Education as part of a rigorous, high-quality implementation of the STEELS.

There are Four Essential Elements:

• Issue Definition: Students research and define a local environmental or watershed problem.
• Outdoor Field Experiences: Students go outside to collect data and make real-world observations.
• Synthesis and Conclusions: Students analyze data, reflect, and draw scientific conclusions.
• Environmental Action Projects: Students take direct, student-led action to address the issue in their community (such as cleanup or public outreach)

MWEEs should reflect an issue that is meaningful and important to your students. You can learn more about MWEEs by visiting this webpage. You can also use the Bay Backpack website for examples, case studies and other tools to help you when designing one with students.