This term M and H really took the lead in the direction of their classes. Being just the two of them together, it was possible to let them direct the classes, because they were always interested in doing the same things.
On our last day of class, M and H mindset was still heavy into create mode. They didn’t slow down, and opt for re visiting, or refining any of their past projects. I always like to encourage one last look at each piece of art they make, ask them if it is just as they wish it to be, if it says just what they want it to say, if it looks complete, if they have any more ideas for it, and simply, if it is done.
M had expressed interest in adding more to his African mask, and H had wanted to paint a fish in his fishbowl, and red hot lava on his volcano. H did what he had planned, but M’s plans were overpowered by a brand new idea.
“Could we please make a bird house out of popsicle sticks? It’s actually something I saw in a movie, The Bernstein Bears. They made one and I thought, hey, why couldn’t I?” -M
Although the idea seemed simple to M, this project required a mental plan, glue gun control and safety, and structural integrity. The boys had to think on many different levels to independently do this project. I stepped back as much as possible, only reminding about how much glue to use, and giving tips on making walls.
They both wanted a round hole, cut out with the ban saw, but I said no, they would have to figure out how to make holes without the saw. Cutting the sticks with scissors was the next best thing.
I was impressed with the posts that M used for support. He had fashioned a beam from wood triangles, and he adequately supported it with little posts. His roof glued right onto the beam. H learned by watching, and used a similar technique for attaching his roof.