Sharpener / Activity Analysis

Physical Education

• The child has learned hand-eye coordination skills by using the sharpener to insert pencils correctly.
• The activity promotes fine motor skills as the child rotates the pencil in the sharpener.
• Using the sharpener encourages proper grip and finger strength development.
• The child develops concentration and focus as they carefully sharpen their pencils.

Science

• The child learns about the concept of blades and how they work to sharpen pencils.
• They observe and understand the process of shaving the wood from the pencil to create a sharp tip.
• Through trial and error, the child learns about cause and effect as they experiment with different pencil placements in the sharpener.
• They understand the importance of taking care of their tools and keeping them in good condition for optimal use.

Encourage further development by providing a variety of pencils or colored pencils for the child to sharpen. This will allow them to practice their skills while also exploring color and creativity. You can also introduce different types of sharpeners, such as manual and electric, to expand their understanding of the concept. Additionally, consider incorporating discussions about the history of sharpeners and how they have evolved over time.

Book Recommendations

• The Pencil by Allan Ahlberg: This book explores the journey of a pencil from its creation to its use, highlighting the importance of sharpening and taking care of it.
• The Adventures of Pencil and Eraser by Ben Clanton: Join Pencil and Eraser as they go on various adventures, teaching children about creativity and the role of sharpening their pencils in their imaginative play.
• How to Draw a Pig by Kate Toms: This interactive book teaches children how to draw different animals step-by-step, emphasizing the need for a sharp pencil to create precise lines and details.