Data logging the class clothes

Explain that every piece of clothing carries hidden information: where it was made, what materials it’s made from, and how that affects its quality and sustainability. Students will become clothing detectives, analyzing their own garments.

Show a quick resource or example label explaining what to look for:

• Country of origin (“Made in…”)
• Fabric composition (percentages: e.g., 80% cotton, 20% polyester)
• Care symbols (wash, iron, dry, etc.)
• Brand / style info

Discuss why this information matters: materials affect durability, comfort, and environmental impact.

Each student examines 2–3 clothing items they are currently wearing. 
They fill out a data log noting (including filled in example):

Students tally and record:

• Number of items per country.
• Number of items per fabric type (cotton, polyester, etc.).
• Average length of ownership.

Use a frequency table or simple spreadsheet to organize and calculate totals and percentages.

Create simple pie charts or bar graphs (on paper or digitally) showing:

• % of each material type (e.g., 50% cotton, 30% polyester, 20% mixed).
• % of countries of origin.
• Distribution by clothing type.

As a class, share charts or display group data. Discuss patterns:

• Which materials appear most often?
• Which countries are most common?
• Are synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon) more frequent than natural ones?

Students reflect and present their ideas using the Talking Stick and 3-Point Presentation method. Discussion prompts:

• What surprised you about your clothing materials or origins?
• How does fabric choice affect sustainability (natural vs. synthetic)?
• What would you consider good quality or sustainable clothing?
• Does how long you’ve owned an item connect to its quality or material?

As a class, create a list or display summarizing common findings and conclusions about where, what, and how we wear our clothes — and what could make clothing choices more sustainable.