How much paper comes from a tree

In this fun maths activity for KS2, students will measure the weight of different paper-based packaging materials and calculate the potential number of items that could be produced from an average tree.

This task will teach learners how to use division to solve real-world problems. It can also function as part of a wider scheme of learning centred around utilising mathematics to comprehend ratios and proportions or as an introduction to sustainability concepts.

By considering the number of natural resources needed to make common everyday items, we can also become informed consumers with more awareness of the environmental impact of our consumption.

What you will need
How much paper comes from a tree worksheet
Selection of paper products
Scales
Pencils
Erasers
Calculators

The engineering context
Engineers must possess knowledge of the number of items they can produce from a single source. For instance, in clothes manufacturing, production engineers should be aware of the number of shirts or dresses that can be made from a single roll of fabric.

Suggested learning outcomes
By the end of this activity, students will be able to know how to use division to solve practical problems, they will be able to convert grams to kilograms, and they will be able to calculate how many paper-based items can be made from one tree.

Download for free!

All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable so that you can tailor them to your students and your schools’ needs.

The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, helpful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

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