Science class: I brought aluminum wire for the kids to play around with. I had a few tools for them to use for cutting and bending the wire. All were very interested in working with this material. I did not have a specific project for them to do, I simply wanted them to get to know the material. However a few did make something they wanted to keep which was great. A few worked so hard, concentrated and peaceful as they created and experimented with the wire...so sweet to see this. I mentioned that aluminum is an element on the periodic table and read a brief description...and a few kids asked questions and made comments, they especially liked the fact that it's an easily recyclable metal. The wire is one of many materials they can choose to work with to make their element character. The work gave their fingers and hands a nice workout as well! Oh and the conversations that came up, their ideas, silliness etc as they worked were so wonderful. Kind words, great interactions...SEL in real life! I very much enjoyed my time with them. My hope is that this big project will be highly individualized,each person their preferred medium to make their character. After experiencing many art mediums they will find the material that resonates with them for their particular character. I don't have a deadline, this is a process .....not product type project, as one person asked me when their work was due. I don't have a deadline...I suppose something to show by the end of the year. My hope is that the kids will develop a great curiosity of the world, they will feel comfortable collaborating and have been exposed to many art materials. I am also wanting them to develop intrinsic motivation and satisfaction, to follow their own ideas with confidence. Game play is another facet to this project. I want them to try some games out, think about what they like in a game and what they don't like. Board games. Card games like pokemom, Magic D and D...etc. those idas will give them some good information for forming their own game. The game part is where I see a lot more collaboration happening. Next week I'll bring back the wire...with more tools, clay as well.

Educational analysis of "Science class: I brought aluminum wire for the kids to play around with. I had a few tools for them to use for cutting and bending ...