Tiny Plastics, Big Environmental Impact

Which of the following best describes microplastics?

• Large pieces of plastic debris found in oceans

• Tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size

• Plastic bags used for shopping

• Recycled plastic bottles

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

Which process is most responsible for breaking down larger plastics into microplastics in the environment?

• Melting

• Photodegradation

• Freezing

• Combustion

Which of the following is a common source of microplastics entering water bodies?

• Plant leaves

• Synthetic clothing fibers from laundry

• Sand particles

• Wood chips

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

Why are microplastics considered a problem for marine life?

• They provide food for fish

• They can be ingested and cause harm to organisms

• They help clean the water

• They dissolve quickly in water

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Which of the following actions can help reduce the amount of microplastics in the environment?

• Using more single-use plastics

• Washing synthetic clothes less frequently

• Burning plastic waste

• Throwing plastic in rivers

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

Which statement best explains why microplastics are difficult to remove from the environment?

• They are biodegradable

• They are too small to be easily filtered out

• They float on water surfaces only

• They are magnetic

A city is planning to reduce plastic pollution in its river. Which strategy would be most effective, and why?

• Installing water fountains

• Banning single-use plastics to prevent them from breaking down into microplastics

• Planting more trees along the riverbank

• Painting the riverbed

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-ETS1-3

Suppose a study finds high levels of microplastics in fish sold at a local market. What is a logical next step for public health officials?

• Ignore the findings

• Investigate potential health risks to humans who eat the fish

• Lower the price of fish

• Increase fish imports

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

A school wants to educate students about the dangers of microplastics. Which activity would best help students understand the impact of microplastics on the environment?

• Watching a movie about space travel

• Conducting a local water sample test for microplastics

• Reading a novel unrelated to science

• Drawing pictures of animals

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

If a country wants to reduce microplastic pollution from personal care products, which policy would be most effective?

• Encouraging the use of plastic bags

• Banning microbeads in cosmetics and personal care products

• Promoting bottled water

• Increasing plastic production

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-ETS1-2