From Garbage Bag to Desktop

Though recycling was already a part of everyday life throughout their school, 1st graders knew they could improve the system by integrating into it a reusing policy.  They decided to focus on paper, a much used resource in both schools and businesses.  Instead of recycling paper that had only been used on one side, they wondered whether they could turn it into notepads to extend each sheet’s usefulness. 

The students learned about paper and paper making to better understand their subject.  They also studied recycling processes, computed how many trees reusing and recycling efforts saved, and researched environmentally friendly glue to bind the notepads. 

After adopting what they learned into a presentation, they visited district schools and local businesses and convinced these groups to save paper that had been used on only one side.  The students used other recyclables such as inner tubes and wooden blocks to make a stamp about reusing.  With the help of high school students, the younger students cut, stamped, and assembled notepads. 

They organized a notepad sale, and advertised it with handmade posters.  During the sale, the 1st graders took turns providing entertainment — including dance, music, and poetry reading — and making change at the sales table.  Proceeds went to a local environmental nonprofit group of the students' choosing.

With such a multi-dimensional project, the 1st graders reached a lot of their town, from other students to businesses and organizations.  Their work and accomplishments demonstrated to everyone that even the youngest community members could be leaders.

Adapted from "Route to Reform: K-8 service-learning Curriculum Ideas," © 1994-95 National Youth Leadership Council.