If you wish to make the task more complicated, have them analyze the energy steps in both the container and the product that it contained. Have different groups present their charts to the class and compare the energy needs of different products. Assessment Observe whether the class was able to identify several different energy-using steps in the manufacture of an everyday object. Check whether students recognize that reducing the number of steps and reusing materials usually reduces energy consumption. Note whether many different students make contributions.
Options Have students use the product from the above activity or choose a different one.
Ask them to think of ways they could make the product more energy-conserving and environmentally friendly. Challenge them to cut out steps. Ask them to design a product that would do the same thing, but use less energy. Have students draw a picture or write a description of their new product. Ask them to explain how it is better than the one it replaces.