Students examine the information on the labels of their clothes.
The intention is to make students aware of the climate-related options they have as consumers.
Ask students in pairs to take out three or four pieces of clothing on the table in front of them. Show them where the label is located.
In pairs, students examine the information on the labels using the Know your wash brand method, where students take turns are given 1 minute to share what information they have found. What information can they find and what do they think is important? For example, washing instructions, fiber composition in %, size, country of origin.
In class, do a joint study of the information on the washing label. The survey can include:
- What sizes and dimensions are listed?
Students write down the different sizes and measurements on a piece of paper. They can explore how they find their own measurements. Questions for joint reflection: Why do we need to know about clothing sizing?
- How should the clothes be washed?
Students draw the different washing symbols and investigate what they mean, e.g. by reading the article Know your wash brand. Questions for collective reflection: How do we wash our clothes in the least climate-impacting way?
- What materials are in the clothes and what percentages are given?
Students make a list of the types of textiles available. If necessary, use the Know your wash brand. Questions for joint reflection: How are the different textile fibers made? Which types have the least impact on the climate? - Where is the clothing produced?
Using the Know your wash brand, students map the country of origin of clothing on a digital or physical world map with a sticker. Questions for joint reflection: Why are so many clothes produced far from where we live?
Ask students what they have learned from this activity. Have their perspectives on clothing, and buying clothing, changed? How so? What surprised them most?
Didactic tips
- Students can choose which of the 4 study topics they would like to participate in.