Plastic in the ocean: What can we do?

Plastic in the ocean: What can we do? is a lesson plan from the British Council’s TeachingEnglish platform, designed for learners aged 9–12 with an approximate B1 level of English. The lesson takes around 120 minutes and can be delivered in two 60-minute sessions. Its main objective is to raise awareness of plastic pollution in the oceans while developing students’ language and communication skills.

The lesson begins with a story about the journey of a plastic bag, showing how everyday rubbish can travel from a street or park into rivers and eventually reach the ocean, where it can harm marine life. Through reading activities, vocabulary work and discussion, students explore the causes and consequences of plastic pollution. They then work collaboratively to create awareness-raising posters containing slogans, explanations, images and suggestions for action.

The resource combines reading, speaking, vocabulary development, creativity and teamwork. It also encourages students to reflect on their own feelings and behaviour, helping them identify practical actions such as reducing single-use plastics, using reusable alternatives and sharing information with others. A gallery walk allows students to view their classmates’ posters and provide positive feedback, adding a peer-learning dimension to the activity.

From an educational perspective, this proposal provides a meaningful context for learning English while addressing an important environmental issue connected to Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water. It can be adapted to different classroom contexts and extended through research, presentations, videos or school awareness campaigns.

https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/teaching-resources/teaching-primary/lesson-plans/level-2/plastic-ocean-what-can-we-do