The sounds of hammering and construction infiltrated the building this week as our youngsters had the opportunity to become both critical thinkers and builders! Let me back up by explaining that through many class conversations (both in direct conversations with the teacher and in peer-to-peer conversations), the students expressed their deep interest and desire to work with wood. I will admit that I was a bit hesitant; these are three-year-olds wanting to use sharp nails and heavy hammers?! However, our students did an excellent job and worked very hard at constructing their thoughts and ideas...
We began by reading the book Thump, Quack, Moo, a story about a farmer who enlists his animals to help build a corn maze for a festival. The students quickly understood that a successful building cannot be completed without a plan. Together, students generated plans (which we called blueprints) and decided what materials would work best for their plan. Afterwards, we worked together to build our ideas. It was not an easy task as nails bent and fingers (mine) were hammered upon. We learned that measuring was also important as well as taking our time.
In the end, we felt as though we still did not have enough time to complete our creations - so be sure to peek your head in during the next few weeks and listen for the sounds of the hammer!
We will also be studying signs and symbols while learning about the Adinkra Cloth, a traditional cloth made by the people of Ghana! Look for our work in the halls in the upcoming weeks!
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