Seventh graders at Saklan recently completed an engaging Project-Based Learning (PBL) unit focused on one of today’s most urgent environmental challenges: single-use plastics.
The project began with a look close to home. Students explored the impact of plastic waste found locally in Moraga and also examined the debris that washes up on beaches in Hawai‘i while studying the Pacific ecosystem. These investigations were guided by the driving question: What can we do to help reduce single-use plastics in my area?
Working in teams, students combined research, creativity, and problem-solving to develop their own eco-friendly solutions. Their ideas included biodegradable straw wrappers, edible silverware, reusable snack bags made from sustainable materials, and renewable bamboo shopping bags.
Throughout the project, students followed the engineering design process: brainstorming ideas, building prototypes, testing their designs, and refining them along the way. The classroom quickly became a hub of experimentation, collaboration, and innovation.
The unit culminated in a lively presentation to the “Sharks of Saklan,” a panel that evaluated each team’s proposal in a real-world style entrepreneurial pitch. Students confidently presented their prototypes and explained the research and thinking behind their designs. The panel praised their creativity, teamwork, and thoughtful approach to addressing a global environmental issue.
Students also extended their work beyond the classroom by writing persuasive letters to companies, encouraging them to consider adopting their ideas—or similar environmentally responsible alternatives. Now, the class is eagerly waiting to see whether any companies respond.
This project beautifully highlighted Saklan’s commitment to learning by doing. By tackling a real-world challenge, students not only deepened their understanding of environmental science but also experienced what it means to think creatively, collaborate with others, and imagine solutions that could make a positive impact on the planet.
#SaklanPBL #LearningByDoing
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