Past projects 2
Makers Upcycle: Need Cool Tools!
Funded Jan 15, 2020Our students have an "open studio" style classroom for art. It is up to them to select materials and tools. When they bring me a piece of cardboard too thick for regular scissors and I can say, "Here's what you need. Let me show you what these ZipSnips can do"---That's a magic moment. Kids feel capable, inspired, empowered.
Some students made automatons. These sculptures are based on simple machines. Turn a crank to move the sculpture. They created spinning bumble bees, twitchy zombies and soaring superheroes.
Other students are using the awls to bind books. Kids can now punch holes through the tagboard and sew or add brass fasteners to connect the spine.
4th and 5th grade students who pass the "Attachment Challenge" (demonstrate three types of attachment without glue or tape) are going nuts over the hot glue. There is truly nothing like "the right tool for the job."
Thank you for your generosity!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Yurko
Architecture Adventure for Kids
Funded Aug 16, 2019In the TAB studio students are regarded as artists and direct their own experience. They come up with their own art problems and solve them, consequently engaging more deeply with their learning. They work at their own pace, following their own lines of inquiry, and develop skills as they need them. They often choose to work with friends and classmates on particular projects. The artistic behaviors they practice are applicable and necessary well beyond the walls of the art room.
I introduced the Architecture Center with some fun videos on what an architect does. We looked at lots of example structures and famous buildings. Many students brought their background knowledge to the presentation, able to identify the Colosseum, Big Ben and other monuments. Though I'd never before heard of the "Leaning Tower of Pizza!"
The kids were overjoyed to get their hands on the Keva planks. Many of them chose to work together. Some chose to make ramps for the balls that came with the package. They measure their structures, experiment with types of stability and squeal with glee when a building topples over. They are able to use iPads to document their projects. This center will be popular year after year. Your gift keeps on giving.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Yurko