In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s never been more important to instill in the next generation the values of sustainability, resource conservation, and environmental responsibility. Primary schools across the globe are recognizing the significance of teaching young minds about the three Rs – Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, as well as the importance of being good stewards of our planet. In this article, we’ll explore how our primary school students are engaging in valuable lessons on recycling materials, reducing waste, reusing resources, and embracing sustainability.
Through engaging stories and interactive discussions, teachers explain how everyday items like paper, plastic, and glass can be given a second life instead of ending up in landfills. Students learn about the recycling process, including collection, sorting, and turning materials into new products.
Under the guidance of the teacher, Joseph and Kevin experimented with recycling paper as follows:
1. Paper Collection: Students bring in used, clean, and dry paper from home. This paper is sorted into different categories, such as newspaper, cardboard, and colored paper.
2. Shredding and Pulp Making: With the help of teachers, students shred the collected paper into small pieces. These pieces are then mixed with water to create a pulp, which will be the raw material for new paper.
3. Papermaking: Students get hands-on experience in the papermaking process. They shape their recycled paper pulp into sheets, pressing out excess water, and letting it dry.
4. Decorating and Using: Once the recycled paper is dry, students use it for various creative projects like making cards, bookmarks, or artwork. This activity not only teaches the recycling process but also encourages their creativity and resourcefulness.
At NCIS we believe that we have a vital role in shaping the environmental consciousness of future generations. Our teachers are nurturing young environmentally aware students and teaching our children that our IB approach, like the hands-on experience of recycling paper, serves as a powerful example of how learning can be both educational and fun. As these young students grow into responsible citizens, they carry with them the knowledge and skills to protect the planet and positively impact the world around them.