Lesson Plan: What are Renewable Resources?

Objective:

Define the concept and value of renewable resources and how to distinguish between renewable and non-renewable resources
Featured learning skills:

Natural science
Consumer awareness
Classification
Natural science
Consumer awareness
Classification

LESSON PLANS

Step 1: Preparation/Discussion

Set the stage for introducing the concept of renewable resources
Click here for background information on ways to discuss the differences between renewable and non-renewable resources and recyclable materials
Read aloud or have the students read in silence
Or highlight the key points and share them with the class

Step 2: Pass out activity sheet [pdf]

DOWNLOAD “What are Renewable Resources?” ACTIVITY SHEET

Part I activity sheet: Answers

Circle cotton and tree (renewable)
Cross out oil well and coal (non-renewable)

Part II activity sheet: Answers

Wood is made from trees, which can be replanted, a renewable resource
Plastic is made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource

Part III activity sheet: Answers

Products made from renewable resources include:

Wood-cased pencils
Cotton or leather clothing
Foods
Paper
Solar electric power

Products made from non-renewable resources include:

Gasoline
Polyester or nylon clothing
The natural gas that heats water in your home
Plastic pencils

Products that are recyclable, but not renewable, include:

Aluminum cans
Glass bottles

Part III activity sheet: Optional assignment
Ask students to visit their local supermarket and make a list of ten products from renewable resources and ten from non-renewable sources. Which are recyclable?

Lynn says:

02/27/2013 at 12:36 PM

Where is the PDF that is referred to? I only see half of an image.

Alexander Poirier says:
02/27/2013 at 2:05 PM

Thanks for pointing this our Lynn. The PDF and the rest of the lesson plan are now available. Sorry about that!
- Kylie says:
  08/30/2013 at 11:44 PM
  
  I cannot seem to see the whole lesson plan and pdf. Where are they available?
  - Alexander Poirier says:
    09/03/2013 at 9:32 AM
    
    Hi Kylie,
    
    The link is about halfway down the page. I’ve updated the link to say “Download” to make it easier to locate. Please let me know if you’re still having issues finding it!
    
    Best,
    Alex