Major themes or topics: Plastic pollution, human impacts, environment, watersheds, community

Big Question: Why is plastic pollution a problem? How does plastic pollution affect aquatic ecosystems?

Virtual Destination(s): Oceans worldwide, Anacostia River

Session 1: What’s the big deal with plastic? Students explore oceans and understand how plastic affects marine ecosystems.

Session 2: Closer to home, students investigate the ways plastic pollution has impacted the Anacostia River and what people in the community are doing to help.

Academic Standards Referenced:

NGSS ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems

Human activities in agriculture, industry, and everyday life have had major effects on the land, vegetation, streams, ocean, air, and even outer space. But individuals and communities are doing things to help protect Earth’s resources and environments.