Introduction
We are going to watch a video called The Story of Stuff.
Stuff: property, as personal belongings or equipment, things.
The video is about 20 minutes in which we are going to see the underside of our production and consumption patterns.
The big issue of Story of Stuff: half of the planet consumes non-stop while the other half is mistreated to keep that level of consumption of the other half and make it possible.
This video is written and presented by Annie Leonard, a consummated expert in Economics and Environmental issues.
We can differentiate 5 stages in the life of stuff:
• Extraction: taking the planet's resources out of the Earth.
• Production: in this stage, we use energy to add toxic chemicals to the natural resources to make toxic products.
• Distribution: involves transporting and selling all the stuff.
• Consumption: when we buy the products and use them.
• Disposal: all the stuff eventually ends up as waste to be usually dumped or burned or recovered for recycling. |
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Before watching the movie, talk about what factors you'd consider when buying an iPod or any other personal entertainment electronic gadget. Sound, convenience, size, style, color, functions, cost?
With some products—like iPods for example—the average consumer may not give it much thought at all; it's from a trusted company and everyone else has one.
Encourage people to be as honest as possible.
Screening of the Documentary - 20 min
After watching the movie, ask the same question. How has the discussion changed? What new factors would you consider when purchasing, or forgoing the purchase of, the next new gadget?
Listening Activity: fill-in-the-gap listening activity (2 pages being page 2 for the answers)
Discussion
Follow-up activities:
Some vocabulary with examples  (3 pages)
Post your comments  on our blog
A link to the Story of Stuff site, which is full of activities and where you can download the documentary. You can also find subtitled versions in different languages! People are pitching in! |
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