**Lesson Plan: Identification of Plastic and Rubber**
**Grade Level:** Junior Secondary 1
**Subject:** Basic Technology
**Duration:** 1 hour
**Topic:** Identification of Plastic and Rubber
**Objective:**
- Students will be able to identify and differentiate between plastic and rubber.
- Students will understand the basic properties of plastic and rubber.
- Students will be aware of practical applications and uses of plastic and rubber in everyday life.
**Materials Needed:**
- Samples of different types of plastic and rubber (e.g., plastic bottles, rubber bands, plastic bags, rubber gloves)
- Magnet
- Water
- Oil
- Worksheets
- Markers and writing materials
- Projector and a computer for presentation
- Videos or images depicting various plastic and rubber items
**Introduction (10 minutes):**
1. **Greeting and Warm-Up:** Begin with a short discussion asking students to name some items made of plastic and rubber that they see or use every day (e.g., toys, packaging, tires, shoes).
2. **Objective Introduction:** Explain the day's objectives and importance of knowing the difference between plastic and rubber.
**Instruction (20 minutes):**
1. **Presentation:** Use a combination of slides and videos to explain:
- **What is Plastic?** - Discuss the composition, types, and characteristics of plastic (e.g., non-biodegradable, lightweight, and flexible)
- **What is Rubber?** - Discuss the properties, natural vs. synthetic rubber, and characteristics (e.g., elasticity, waterproof, and pliable)
2. **Differences Between Plastic and Rubber:**
- Density and weight
- Texture and flexibility
- Reaction to temperature changes
- Common uses and applications
**Activity (20 minutes):**
1. **Hands-on Identification:** Provide students with a variety of plastic and rubber items. Have them:
- Sort and categorize the items into plastic and rubber.
- Perform simple experiments to test properties such as buoyancy by placing items in water and observing if they float or sink.
- Test magnetic properties to see if any items are attracted to a magnet.
- Discuss observations and results.
2. **Worksheet:** Distribute worksheets where students match different items to their correct material type (plastic or rubber) and provide reasons for their choices.
**Guided Practice (5 minutes):**
1. **Group Discussion:** Engage the students in a discussion about what they learned from the activity. Ask guiding questions such as:
- How can you tell the difference between plastic and rubber just by touching them?
- Why is it important to know the difference between plastic and rubber?
**Conclusion (5 minutes):**
1. **Recap:** Summarize the main points of the lesson, highlighting the key differences between plastic and rubber.
2. **Q&A Session:** Allow students to ask any lingering questions they have regarding the topic.
3. **Closing Remark:** Emphasize the significance of understanding material types in making informed decisions about recycling and environmental impact.
**Assessment:**
- Review students' worksheets to assess their understanding.
- Observe and note student participation during hands-on activities and discussions.
**Homework:**
- Ask students to find and list 5 household items made from plastic and 5 from rubber. They should describe the use of each item and why the particular material (plastic or rubber) is suitable for that use.
**Reflection:**
- After the lesson, reflect on what went well and what could be improved for future lessons. Note any areas where students struggled and consider additional practice or resources that may help.