In our school the students (and I) are happy that there are still lesson in practical things, we call it "Technik". Working with wood, cooking, computer and sewing - each for half a year. I teach sewing and Computer and could teach wood. It's such a shame that those topics get cancelled due to the panic that students are not learning enough any more in the "core" disciplines. That is true, but for sure has a lot to do with the general ambience and the society. In my humble opinion being able to tie a knot definitely is a core discipline - and one that not all my 6th-graders succeed in, when they come into my class.
Anyway, I should mostly teach sewing on machines, but we enjoy very much the hand sewing. In winter time it is of course a Christmas theme and for the summer term Mother's Day or flowers.
This year I have some very creative students who enjoy my ever growing stash of beads and take profit of my ever growing experience teaching this subject in a very busy school life.
To my great pleasure one of my favorite blogs recently gave the perfect tutorial for beaded and stuffed stars.
The very last pictures shows part of my tiny little crowded textile room (but at least I have one!) with the left-over of stuffed stars from last years course hanging on the window.
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Maybe you've found an idea for yourself. Those little pouches are nice to use for putting a small gift into them.
The stars would make present tags, window decoration, Christmas tree decoration; they could be hanging on a long string from the ceiling or being used for a Christmas mobile.
Anyway, I should mostly teach sewing on machines, but we enjoy very much the hand sewing. In winter time it is of course a Christmas theme and for the summer term Mother's Day or flowers.
This year I have some very creative students who enjoy my ever growing stash of beads and take profit of my ever growing experience teaching this subject in a very busy school life.
To my great pleasure one of my favorite blogs recently gave the perfect tutorial for beaded and stuffed stars.
The very last pictures shows part of my tiny little crowded textile room (but at least I have one!) with the left-over of stuffed stars from last years course hanging on the window.
.
Maybe you've found an idea for yourself. Those little pouches are nice to use for putting a small gift into them.
The stars would make present tags, window decoration, Christmas tree decoration; they could be hanging on a long string from the ceiling or being used for a Christmas mobile.
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It is very interesting to hear you say you like to keep the arts in the school curriculum. In the U.S. the leaders would have us believe we are behind in all things math and science so art must go and also physical things like outdoor playtime. Don't they know the practical arts need to be learned too? And that art uses the same part of the brain as math? How much pressure can we put on the children? I am glad to see you teach them something creative. I try to teach my granddaughters, when we visit, a craft of some kind. We need to show them this stuff while they are young. (Lack of the arts, practical and fine, is a pet peeve of mine if you didn't notice).
ReplyDeleteHi freebird,
ReplyDeletenice to see you here again :-)
As I said: In Germany all those subjects are cut ; in a lot of places to nothing.
It is also a matter of money, but that is not said loud. For teaching wood, sewing etc. 15 students are more than enough. So two teachers are needed. Sometimes I take 30 at the same time, but that's pain and with sewing impossible.
Practical art is the base for math and other subjects! For instance: It helps developing the paths in the brain that are necessary for dimensional thinking.
Good, that your grandchildren have you.
Take care
:-Tally-:
Oh, these are wonderful !
ReplyDeleteAnd I agree with you two, learning to make things with your own hands is one of the most important things in life. Lucky children to have you as a teacher, Tally !
Das sind wirklich wunderschöne Handarbeiten, an denen man sich herrlich inspirieren kann. Mich juck tes chon in den Fingern... liebe Grüße von Ellen-seelenruhig
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