All of my classes have started the year with a little group project in which I ask kids to learn from each other instead of directly from me. It is based on simple origami. Students were asked to think of a goal they wanted to focus on for the upcoming year, and write it on a piece of paper. Next, they could decorate the paper with colored media, and then choose an origami form to make from the paper. Here's the big catch - I am not highly skilled with origami, and had to learn along with the kids on this one. I gave them three levels of challenge with bird origami forms, and they were able to successfully teach me the first two. The theme of the project is "Taking Flight" with the class being a "flock" that had to ensure each member's success with at least one bird. Bad "dad jokes" aside, this got the kids working together and talking about goals and sharing skills. Each student was asked to make at least two birds. They were asked to donate one to a group exhibit (now being assembled -- so many paper birds!) and take one home as a visual symbol of their goal for the year. This was a fun wat to encourage collaboration and sharing to get the year started on the right note. Photos to come!
In other fun events, our adorable comfort dog Rusty came down to art and met Hapi, the less cuddly but just as adorable parrot that I share with my classes. While Rusty released several uncharacteristic booming woofs at the poor bird, Hapi just leaned into him and made kissy sounds. A relationship begins!
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AuthorHello All! I am Ms. Ropple, the full time art teacher at W.S. Parker Middle School in Reading, MA. I teach four sections each of Gr.6 & 7th General Art, Semester long Art Studio classes for 6th,7th,and 8th grades, and three semester long 8th grade art electives each year. I love every minute and especially love the most creative kids in the world - our students! Archives
October 2022
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