Rang 3: Nature, the Great Recycler

This theme seeks to promote an understanding of the delicate cycles of nature where energy and materials are continually exchanged and recycled. Through a range of group activities, role plays, stories, games and worksheets, the theme helps to foster an understanding of the word 'environment'; introduce the concept of 'food chains'; illustrate how energy is passed from one link in the chain to the next; promote and understanding of the interdependence between people and nature; and alert pupils to the “domino effect” which results when links in the food chains become polluted.

This theme forms an ideal springboard for the exploration of the concepts and issues which are addressed in the succeeding theme 'Wasting Away'

Activities include - 'Essential Choices', 'Surrounded', 'What is Energy?', 'Sources of Energy', 'Pass it On', 'Ar Stailc', 'VIPs - Very Important Particles', 'Particles in Peril' etc.

Rang 4: Wasting Away

The theme involves pupils in concrete activities where they observe, record and evaluate the amount of waste in their environment. The results of their waste surveys are compiled, displayed, and form the basis for awareness raising activities in the school and in the locality.

Issues relating to the dangers of careless disposal of waste and the benefits of conservation and recycling are raised with reference to practices in other countries.

Finally, the problem of waste as an integral part of modern living is highlighted when a Stone Age child reflects on the similarities and differences between past and present ways of living.

Activities include - 'What a Waste', 'Ag Faire ar an mBruscar', 'Me, a Litter Lout, Never!', 'Cén Aois Mé', 'Plastic is Forever', 'Nature's Recyclers', 'The Green Scene', 'Equal Shares', 'Stone Crazy' etc.