When first accessing the home page users are greeted with an interactive game at the top of the page. My Garbology defines the term by selecting the arrow on the left or the game can be started by choosing the arrow on the right. The next screen features a row of colorful waste containers with items no longer needed by consumers.
When all of the facts have been explained, listened to by the user, a challenge pops up on the screen. At this point by choosing the next arrow, you are taken back to the original screen with the item correctly placed in the container no longer available. When all of the items have been placed in the preferred container, a final window appears.
Beneath the game is a toolbar with choices for learning more about what the site offers, a page dedicated to listing the sources of information for the facts given in the game, links to pages geared toward teachers, students and families, Trash Talk (a page explaining Garbology as a term, its history, and the site) and a contact submission form.
- About Us (Why We Teach, How We Teach, Research & Resources)
- School & Group Field Science (at Yosemite, at Golden Gate, at Olympic, at Santa Monica Mountains, at Channel Islands)
- Family & Youth Programs (at Yosemite, at Golden Gate, at Olympic)
- Training & Tools (for Teachers, for Outdoor Professionals)
- National Park Locations (Yosemite, Golden Gate, Olympic, Santa Monica Mountains, Channel Islands) and
- News, Events & Community (News & Events, Blog, Media)
On the For Teachers page all the lessons (nine) and fact sheets (five) are in PDF format. Each lesson includes the appropriate grade level, a summary, overview, vocabulary, materials, time needed, background introduction, a lengthy list of activities, National Science Standards covered in the lesson and any necessary activity sheets. If any preparations are needed they are listed. Some lessons include before and after questions to promote discussion and extensions to the listed activities.
The For Students section provides activities (eight) geared toward conducting your own garbology. Seven activities are included in the For Parents page. Each of the three For pages contains a featured item as well as a link to the My Garbology game.
Due to the interactivity of the My Garbology game this website could be used by individuals or with groups. Each layer of the game cleverly informs the player(s) but also encourages independent thinking and larger conversations. The facts provided are astounding no matter the age of the user. No one can use this website without wondering what they can do to make our planet better for future generations.
Make sure you place this top-notch website in your curriculum. It's a must; highly recommended. There is also an option to sign up for teaching resources via email.
