Lesson Plan: Creating Unique Objects from Waste Plastic
Workshop Duration: 2–3 Half Days
Objectives:
Understand different types of waste plastic, their properties, and identification methods.
Learn about plastic recycling processes, including sorting and preparation.
Explore techniques for processing plastic for injection molding and/or 3D printing.
Create unique objects using recycled plastic.
Materials Needed:
Various plastic types (HDPE, PET, PP, etc.)
Safety gloves, goggles, and masks
Basic tools for cutting and cleaning plastic (scissors, knives, soap, and water)
If students wish to print their designs from filament: 3D printer with filament-making capability
Parking spot for a trailer and electrical hookup (120v)
Materials Provided:
Samples of various plastic types and recreated objects as examples (HDPE, PET, PP, etc.)
Identification guides or charts for plastic types
Safety gloves, goggles, and masks
Basic tools for cutting and cleaning plastic (scissors, knives, soap, and water)
Some pre shredded plastic
Injection molding machine
Molds for shaping recycled plastic
Measuring scales and heat-resistant containers
Day 1: Understanding Waste Plastic and Collection
Introduction to Plastic Waste
Discuss global plastic waste issues and sustainability.
Explain the different types of plastics and their properties.
Demonstrate how to identify plastic types using recycling symbols and simple tests.
Plastic Processing Basics
Teach cleaning and preparation techniques (washing, drying, and removing labels).
Demonstrate methods for cutting and shredding plastic.
Discuss safety precautions when working with plastic.
Day 2: Field Trip/ Plastic Collection Activity (Optional)
Field Trip or Plastic Collection Activity
Visit a local waste transfer station, prearranged tour with municipal or First Nation government who manages the transfer station
Learn about local waste management
Transforming Plastic for Reuse
Sort collected plastics into categories.
Demonstrate the process of creating plastic filament for 3D printing.
Explain the injection molding process and how different molds affect outcomes.
Allow students to prepare their processed plastic for use.
Hands-On Plastic Crafting
Students use injection molding machines and / or 3D printers to create objects.
Experiment with different plastic types to understand their properties.
Encourage creativity in designing unique objects.
Day 3 : Creation, Refinement and Presentation
Hands-On Plastic Crafting (cont.)
Students use injection molding machines and / or 3D printers to create objects.
Experiment with different plastic types to understand their properties.
Encourage creativity in designing unique plastic combinations.
Finishing and Enhancing Creations
Teach techniques for refining plastic objects (sanding or polishing).
Allow students to make adjustments to their projects.
Showcase and Reflection
Students present their projects, explaining their material choices and processes.
Discuss challenges and discoveries made during the workshop.
Wrap up with a discussion on how to implement these recycling techniques in daily life and how they think waste Yukon plastic can be used and what the potential benefits are.
Assessment & Reflection:
Participation in discussions and hands-on activities.
Understanding of plastic properties and recycling techniques.
Creativity and effort in final projects.
Self-reflection on sustainable practices and project challenges.
This workshop provides students with practical knowledge and hands-on experience in plastic recycling while encouraging creativity and sustainability!
| Grade Suitability | Gr 5-10 |
| Maximum Class Size | 4-8 students at a time |
| Time Required | 6-9 hours instruction, 3-4.5 hours prep (1:2 ratio) |
| Material Required | I will provide the materials except for Various plastic types (HDPE, PET, PP, etc.) Safety gloves, goggles, and masks if more than 4 students are participating. Basic tools for cutting and cleaning plastic (scissors, knives, soap, and water) If students wish to print their designs from filament: 3D printer with filament-making capability Parking spot for a trailer and electrical hookup (120v) |
| Material Cost | $100-$300 per day depending on equipment |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Communities | Beaver Creek, Carcross, Carmacks, Dawson City, Destruction Bay, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, Pelly Crossing, Ross River, Teslin, Watson Lake |
| Special Notes | Creating From Waste Plastic can be an extended project. |
At Yukon Plastics, we transform discarded plastic waste into beautiful, functional houseware, and other useful products. By repurposing materials like HDPE and PP, we not only reduce waste, but also create products that are both in demand and sustainable. Our mission is to breathe new life into discarded resources, embracing a truly circular business model that combines innovation with environmental stewardship.
Our founder, Janna, is a teacher on call in Whitehorse schools and enjoys working with youth. She has received several innovation and community awards, including the recent Yukon 125 award for reconciliation and leadership. She would like to invite Yukon students to learn about opportunities with plastic and to enable them to contribute to positive change for the territory.