In Grade 1/2, we learned about protecting our planet by reducing plastic waste. We talked about how plastic forks and spoons harm the Earth and animals when they’re thrown away. So, we decided to use reusable cutlery instead.

First, we talked about where plastic goes when we’re done with it. We found out it piles up in landfills and hurts our planet and animals. Then, we brainstormed ways to help. We made notes for our parents and posters for our school to encourage everyone to use reusable cutlery.

We also talked on the school announcements and put notes in our lunch kits to remind our parents. Every day, we made sure our reusable cutlery made it home,
not in the trash.

When we went to the zoo, we saw how animals need clean air and water. We played near the beaver lodge and learned how plastic can hurt them. That made us even more determined to help.

The zoo field trip wasn’t just a fun outing—it was a chance to connect what we’ve been learning about animals to the real world. Each of us had researched different animals for our projects, and seeing them at the zoo made those
animals come to life.

As we wandered among the exhibits, we shared what we knew about the animals we’d studied. Some of us talked about red pandas, others about snakes and some about elephants. We were like little experts, teaching each other what we’d learned. One of the highlights was seeing Lucy the elephant taking a walk with her zookeepers.

At Thorncliffe School we’re learning that small changes can make a big difference. By using reusable cutlery and taking care of our planet, we’re making the world better for everyone, including animals.We realized how important our mission to reduce plastic waste really was. We didn’t want the animals we loved to be hurt by something we could help stop. So, we became even more determined to spread the word about using reusable cutlery and taking care of our planet.

Thank you very much to the Valley Zoo and Melton Foundation for providing our class with this fabulous opportunity!