BEACH LITTER
impacts of beach litter as part of the 5-14 Curriculum. Pupils will develop knowledge and understanding linked to Environmental Studies, Attainment Outcomes in science and social subjects.

It is suggested that this resource would be best suited to the Interaction of Living Things with their Environment strand (Level C) (perhaps as part of a seashore project), although it has been designed so as to be flexible and easily adapted to suit all Levels, including 14+ either as reference material or to promote active, independent learning. The activities will develop skills in preparing for tasks, carrying out tasks and reviewing and reporting on tasks as well as the core skills of working with others, language and communication, numeracy, information and communication technology, problem solving and learning and thinking. It is anticipated that pupils will develop informed attitudes regarding individual social
and environmental responsibility.

This education pack consists of:
• Factsheets & Activity Sheets
• Answer sheets & Suggestions for Independent Learning (Levels D-F)
• Suggestions for Field Work

See the ‘Navigation’ page to progress through the lessons
Developing Awareness
Litter is the "key problem" facing the ecosystem along the coast, with an 82 per cent rise in rubbish levels across the UK in the past decade. There is the need to support local communities in improving, maintaining and enhancing their local shoreline. The successful outcomes of these initiatives have the potential to bring about a cleaner, healthier, safe and diverse coastal environment for local communities to share and enjoy.

Introduction
• Ask for stories about going to the beach, name things you would expect to see at the beach, ideas of how people affect the beach - has anyone seen litter at the beach?

Types, Sources and Impacts of Beach Litter –
refer to Sections A, B, C & D and selection of A4 colour photographs
• What is litter?
• What are the different types of litter that can be found on the beach? use props – how long does litter last in the environment?
• Where has the litter come from (source)?
• What are the impacts of beach and coastal litter?

Activities –
refer to Section E. Section F has the ’Answers’
• The activities have been designed for all Levels (see page headers).
• The suggestions for independent learning are geared towards
Levels D-F of the 5-14 Curriculum and are designed to develop information and communication technology skills, written and/or oral communication and critical reflection.

Field Work –
refer to Section G
• The field work will provide a motivating and memorable learning experience, reinforcing classroom learning whilst learning about health and safety issues and risk management.
• Beach litter surveys and clean-ups are suitable activities for working towards/ maintaining your Eco Schools status (indicator of progress on National Priority 4: Values and Citizenship).
Adopt-a-Beach – refer to Section H
Adopt-a-Beach is a Marine Conservation Society UK-wide initiative to survey and clean litter on beaches.

At all Levels, the lesson should encourage questions and suggestions from the class so as to be an interactive discussion rather than a lecture.
Wherever possible, display work in a prominent location to raise awareness amongst the whole school and wider community.