Today was 2 4th grade classes at McCormick’s Creel Elementary. I read the story of how the elves prototyped a new sleigh for Santa. Then introduced them to the tools & materials they would be using. New tools are exciting for everyone. And yes, we talked about safety.
They got to work. One class had more complete plans before starting to build than the other one did. Then a furious hour or so of cutting cardboard (they love that part – new tool) and putting things together. There are always a couple of hot glue burns (nothing requiring a nurse).
A couple of groups finished in each class.
We need more time so they get to share their ideas.
We probably need 2 hours for the whole thing (read, plan, build, share)
Even at the 4th grade level, there are always a group (or two) that havent figured out how to work together (“what do you mean you changed the design again”). Interpersonal dynamics is always a work in progress.
Leave a Reply