The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 7th-grade students in a dynamic exploration of the novel "Trash" by Andy Mulligan through a project-based approach. By investigating the mysteries within the story and its real-world parallels, students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills. This experience connects literary analysis with real-world environmental and social issues, fostering a deeper understanding of both the text and the world around them. By assessing our school's trash production and collaborating with community partners, students will create a comprehensive case file guide, enhancing their comprehension and communication abilities.

Students will develop skills in literary analysis by identifying and connecting clues, analyzing character perspectives, and understanding the influence of setting on the narrative. They will apply these skills to real-world contexts by investigating and assessing the amount of trash produced by their school, linking the book's themes to environmental and social justice issues. Collaborative teamwork will be emphasized as students create a comprehensive case file guide, enhancing critical thinking and reflective practices through pre-, mid-, and post-assessments.

Students will collaboratively create a comprehensive case file guide that includes visual and textual evidence, character analyses, and thematic connections. They will also produce a multimedia presentation showcasing their findings, incorporating insights from investigating the school's trash production. The final exhibition will feature these case files and presentations, allowing students to share their detective work with peers and community partners.

Begin the learning experience by conducting an investigation into the amount of trash produced by the school. Collaborate with a community partner to facilitate a waste audit, where students will sort and analyze the school's trash. This hands-on activity will provide concrete data for students to reflect on and connect to the themes of waste and social justice in "Trash." Following the audit, students will participate in a "See-Think-Wonder" routine to draw parallels between their findings and the novel's setting.

Students will host a "Literary Detective Showcase" where they present their comprehensive case file guides to peers, teachers, and community partners. Each group will set up a station displaying their investigation findings, including visual evidence, character analyses, and thematic connections to real-world issues. The event will feature interactive elements such as a mystery-solving activity for visitors, encouraging engagement and discussion about the book's themes and social context. Additionally, students will share insights from their investigation into the school's trash production, highlighting connections between the novel's setting and real-life environmental issues.