Examine four sets of garbage, one being your own. Others can be from own home, homes of friends, or other containers from around neighborhood, school, etc.

For each set:

1. Describe the setting where you found the garbage (e.g., describe your room, family kitchen area, neighbor's garage, etc.)

2. List items from the garbage in detail.

3. Write essay for each set - play detective . . .

How do the contents of the garbage reflect the habits, general preferences, and socioeconomic status of the users? Do the contents reflect trends in the general culture? (e.g., If you find Twinkie wrappers - talk about junk food issues, fast-paced urban lifestyles).

4. Conclusion - Revelations from your examination of garbage