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Do Adults Know Which Numbers Count?

CSEF · 2009 Behavioral & Social Sciences

Olivia A. Aquilina · Nazareth School, San Diego, San Diego County

Overview

Objectives/Goals My objective for this experiment was to see how many adults were informed about the hazards of plastic containers based on what chemicals they were made from. Methods/Materials The method I used was a survey that I conducted at four different locations. From these locations, I asked people between the ages 21-50+ a series of simple questions that informed me of their knowledge and awareness of the recyclable numbers and the chemicals that they potentially release into the food or beverages they contain. I arranged the people into groups; Group 1 (21-30yrs), Group 2 (31-40yrs), Group 3 (41-50yrs),and Group 4 (50+yrs), according to their age. This helped me to see which age group was most informed. Results Out of 300 people, only 3 actually knew the correct answers on my survey. The three individuals were aware of the numbers on the bottom of plastic containers and were able to tell me which ones were hazardous to their health. One person that answered correctly was in Age Group 3 and two other people were in Age Group 2. Conclusions/Discussion The age group that was most aware was Age Group 2 (31-40yrs), however, only 2 people out of 75 knew the correct answers. With this knowledge, I know that the news has not been going around as efficiently as it can. I can improve this by telling friends and family. I no longer buy or drink plastic bottles that contain a recycling number of 3, 6, or 7. In doing this, I will stay clear of any hazards they come with and will do my best to inform others. I have spread some of the news already and will continue to do so. Since I have been using the Scientific Method, I can now use it easily and will use it in future projects.

Summary statement

My project was a survey to see how many adults were informed about the hazards of plastic containers based on what chemicals they contain.

Help received

My mom helped me with my display board, my dad helped me conduct my surveys, and my teacher, Ms. Reed, helped to guide me through this project.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2009 Behavioral & Social Sciences · Entry J0302

Resources

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