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What is this resource and how do I use it?
Discuss the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling with this resource. Chat to your child about
these key terms to make them more aware of the impact our choices can have on the environment.
Next, have a go at sorting the materials into the correct bins. You can even colour in the bins to
match the system you have at home.
Further Ideas and Suggestions
Think about other ways you can help the environment with
Environmental Awareness
these discussion cards. We have lots of ideas for things
Home Routines you can make or do with items that are ready to be recycled
- take a look at this checklist for inspiration. Wondering
Caring for the Planet what to do with old Christmas cards? Here are some
suggestions.

Parents Blog Twinkl Kids’ TV Homework Help

Recycling
Materials
Sorting Activity

When discussing waste,

you might have heard of Reduce
the three Rs. These are This means cutting down the amount of
reduce, reuse and recycle. waste we produce. You might buy less or
make careful choices when buying things
But what do they mean?
(such as choosing loose fruit instead of
fruit in plastic packaging). It’s a good
idea to make a shopping list, so you’re
not tempted to buy more than you need.
Avoid disposable items - choose long-life
or reusable products instead.

Reuse
Products can often be used more than
once. It could be that you use an old
jam jar for storing another food or for
collecting coins. You might have milk
delivered in glass bottles and send those
back to be used again. It’s also great
if you can repair a broken item to give
it a new lease of life. If you no longer
have use for something, sell or donate it
instead of throwing it away.

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 Recycle
If there is no way to reuse an item,
you could recycle it. This means it is
processed into something new, rather
than being sent to landfill. It could be
turned into a version of the same thing
(for example, used glass bottles can
be melted down and turned into new
glass bottles) or it might be made into
something else (such as recycled paper
being made into cardboard egg boxes).
What can
be recycled?
In the UK, many items
can be recycled. You
might have several
different bins to help
you sort your items for
recycling. If something
cannot be recycled at
home, it’s likely that
you’ll be able to visit a
local recycling centre so
they can help you.

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Sorting Activity
Can you sort out these items
so they go in the correct
recycling bin?
You will need:
• plastic, green waste,
paper, cardboard, glass
and aluminium bin
images (included in
this resource)
• item images (included in
this resource)
• A4 paper or thin card
• colouring pencils, paints
or felt-tip pens
• scissors
Instructions
1. Print the bin images and the item
images onto A4 paper or thin card.
2. Carefully, cut out the items. You
might like an adult to help with this.
3. Take a look at the different bins
together. Chat to your adult about
what recycling bins you have at
home. What colour is each bin?
Which materials can you recycle
in each one?
4. Use this information to help you
colour in each bin to match your
system at home. If there is a
material that you can’t recycle at
home, choose any colour you like for
that bin.
Twinkl Tip: You could research a
local recycling centre where you
could take any materials that can’t be
recycled at home.

5. Now, sort the different items into the

Extra Idea: correct bins.
Add your own
6. You might choose to stick the items
items to each bin by
to the bins and then display them so
drawing a picture or
everyone in the house can see what
writing them
should go in each bin.
down.

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Plastic
Green
Waste
Paper
Cardboard
Glass
Aluminium
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We hope you find the information on our website and resources useful. As far as possible, the contents of this resource are reflective of current professional
research. However, please be aware that every child is different and information can quickly become out of date. The information given here is intended for
general guidance purposes only and may not apply to your specific situation.
Some ingredients and/or materials used might cause allergic reactions or health problems. You should ensure that you are fully aware of the allergies and
health conditions of those taking part. If you have any concerns about your own or somebody else’s health or wellbeing, always speak to a qualified health
professional. Activities listed within the resource should always be supervised by an appropriate adult. Children should be supervised when using sharp
items such as scissors or other tools. Please make sure you are aware that children may put craft items into their mouths, and that they should wash their
hands afterwards. By using this resource, you acknowledge that it is the responsibility of supervising adults to ensure the safety of children in their care and
that we will accept no liability as a result of the activity.