Lesson Objectives:
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
- Analyze the environmental impact of plastic straws using scientific evidence.
- Evaluate the political and economic factors influencing plastic straw regulations.
- Identify different perspectives in the debate over plastic straw bans.
- Develop a critical stance on the role of government in environmental policy.
Background & Context:
President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order reversing federal restrictions on plastic straws, arguing that paper straws are ineffective and a nuisance. This decision has sparked controversy, with environmentalists criticizing the move as a step backward in the fight against plastic pollution, while supporters see it as a stand against excessive regulation.
Sources used for balanced analysis:
- BBC News – Discusses political and public reactions.
- The Independent – Examines Trump’s rationale and media coverage.
- BBC Future – Investigates the environmental impact of plastic vs. paper straws.
- World Wildlife Fund – Details plastic straws’ harm to marine life.
- Phys.org – Presents scientific research on plastic straw degradation.
Lesson Activities:
Understanding the Issue
1. Warm-Up Discussion
- Ask students to list common single-use plastic items and their effects on the environment.
- Show images of plastic pollution and discuss its impact on marine life.
2. Reading & Note-Taking
- Distribute the BBC News and Independent articles.
- Students read individually and highlight key points.
- They should identify political arguments for and against plastic straw regulations.
3. Class Discussion
- Break students into small groups.
- Each group discusses:
- Why do some people support Trump’s decision?
- What concerns do environmentalists have?
- How do businesses react to straw regulations?
- Groups summarize their discussions for the class.
“We’re going back to plastic straws.” –President Donald J. Trump 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/GONNjP6UNn
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) February 10, 2025
4. Homework Assignment:
- Students read BBC Future and World Wildlife Fund articles.
- They write a summary comparing the pros and cons of plastic and paper straws.
Deeper Analysis & Debate
1. Reviewing Environmental Evidence
- Discuss findings from the BBC Future and World Wildlife Fund readings.
- Introduce the Phys.org study on plastic straw degradation.
- Ask: Does this new research change your opinion on the issue?
2. Structured Debate
- Assign half of the class to argue for bringing back plastic straws.
- Assign the other half to argue against it.
- Each side presents their points using evidence from the readings.
3. Reflective Writing
- Students write a personal response to the question:
- Should the government regulate single-use plastics, or should consumers decide?
- Support your stance with evidence from the lesson.
4. Class Wrap-Up Discussion
- Discuss key takeaways from the debate.
- Ask students if their opinions changed based on new information.
Assessment & Evaluation:
- Participation in Discussions (20%) – Engagement in group discussions and class debate.
- Article Summaries (20%) – Accuracy in summarizing the scientific and political aspects.
- Debate Performance (30%) – Use of evidence, argument clarity, and rebuttal skills.
- Reflective Writing (30%) – Critical thinking and use of supporting evidence.
Extensions & Further Learning:
- Research how other countries handle plastic straw regulations.
- Conduct a school-wide survey on plastic straw usage.
- Develop an awareness campaign promoting sustainable alternatives.
