Synthetic fibres and plastics “One of the basic needs of human beings.” Grade: 8-9

Unit Plan Summary: The unit contains preparation and properties of various synthetic fibres. It also aim at discussing and realizing the importance and application of synthetic fibres in day to day life. The unit will also consider the damage caused by plastic waste and the measures to control problems caused by plastics.

Students would be asked to prepare rayon from cotton, in groups they will be asked to device activities for comparing natural fibres and synthetic fibres. Group discussions, debates and poster making would be organized to discuss the damage caused by plastic waste and suggestions for controlling problems caused by plastics would be invited.

What are the three basic needs of human beings? Essential Question What are the three basic needs of human beings?  

Unit questions Q1. From where do we obtain clothes? Q2 .Name the different sources of fibres? Q3. Name the two different types of fibres based on their sources.

Content questions Q1.What are synthetic fibres? Q2. Define: monomer, polymer, plastics and polymerization. Q3. Give uses of the following synthetic fibres: rayon, nylon,  polyester, PET, acrylon and koroseal Q4. Differentiate between thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics with examples. Q5. What are biodegradable and non-biodegradable  materials? Give examples. Q6. Mention the harmful effects of plastics in the environment. Q7. Give measures to control problems caused by plastics.

Subject area Methods of preparation of synthetic fibres. Properties of synthetic fibres. Comparison of synthetic fibres with natural fibres. Thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. Damage caused by plastics. Measures to control problems caused by plastics.

Learning outcomes The objectives of the unit are as follows: By the end of the unit the students would: Know the methods of preparation of some synthetic fibres such as rayon, nylon, polyesters etc. Know the properties of synthetic fibres. Be able to compare synthetic fibres with natural fibres. Realise the importance and application of synthetic fibres in day to day life. Know about the damage caused by plastics in the environment. Be able to suggest ways to control pollution caused by plastics.

Benefits of Using Project Approaches, Ongoing Assessment, a and CFQs in My Unit Students use their skills to work and investigate on something which plays a vital role in their day-to-day life. Students collaborate with peers to collect information about application and harmful effects of synthetic fibres. They improve on their critical thinking, problem solving and creativity while they are working on the project. Throughout the project they give and receive feedback on their work.

By Using Project Approaches, Ongoing A Assessment, and CFQs My Students Will: Experience the benefits of working together and use technology to enhance their learning. Gain self-assessment and self-direction skills that they will use and build on all year long

My Goals Learn about different kinds of technology that will motivate my students Find ways to get my students to do more higher-order thinking Learn some strategies for helping students do projects from other teachers