K & 1st Grade Big Idea: Play
CHILD-DESIGNED PLAYSCAPE (K & 1st grade)
PHASE 2 of A2STEAM renovation included the relocation of the K-1st grade play structure. Seizing the opportunity to create a real-world PBL experience, I co-developed with U of M MFA Graduate, Laura Amtower, a yearlong PBL centered around the Big Idea: Play. We integrated classroom core curriculum with elements of art and design to encourage students to develop innovative theories on play and create a child-designed playscape proposal. We implemented a hands-on pedagogical approach by observing and physically exploring the STEAM landscape, research and in-depth inquiry, studying movement through play, and processing group dynamics of play.
PHASE 2 of A2STEAM renovation included the relocation of the K-1st grade play structure. Seizing the opportunity to create a real-world PBL experience, I co-developed with U of M MFA Graduate, Laura Amtower, a yearlong PBL centered around the Big Idea: Play. We integrated classroom core curriculum with elements of art and design to encourage students to develop innovative theories on play and create a child-designed playscape proposal. We implemented a hands-on pedagogical approach by observing and physically exploring the STEAM landscape, research and in-depth inquiry, studying movement through play, and processing group dynamics of play.
Observation of Lines and Patterns on the Playground
Students searched for patterns, lines and repetition on the playground that would be removed within a week of starting school. They learned the element of line by using gross motor skills to run various lines mared out on the blacktop. Students used fine motor skills to weave lines onto their own "blacktop" burlap fabric.
Pop up Play Ground
Using a collection of recycled materials from the Scrap Box of Ann Arbor, 1st grade students had a blast creating a pop up playground. We noticed that most students gravitated to making musical instruments like drums and horns, others tried to make shelters and forts. It was a beautiful hour of collaboration!
Child-Designed Playscape
Each class in K -5th grade collaborated to create a large-scale model of a playscape design. These playscapes were then dipslayed for a community-wide vote. Students presented their models to the Superintendent of Ann Arbor Public Schools and the landscape architect.
Where I Play After School
1st grade students used the elements and principles of art to construct compositions based on where they like to play after school. Body proportions and joints were discussed as they studied the human figure in motion.
The Natural World
K & 1st grade students learned about color mixing through going outside and collecting, sorting, and observing leaves. These were then painted with watercolor.
