I want to go build. - GusThe construction area is a very active space within our environment. Before they are even fully aware of the potential of this space, children quickly notice the wide variety of blocks available and naturally associate this area of the classroom with "building". In addition to blocks, we also include items that vary in material type, texture, size, color, etc., to inspire and encourage all different types of construction. During the first few days of school, it is common to observe independent play and exploration taking place within the construction area. During this time, children are still becoming familiar with both the people and the objects that they are sharing their space with! While it was evident that the children were enjoying the materials available to them and readily chose to spend time in this space, after days of observation we made the decision to begin each day with a new provocation waiting for the children when they arrived in the classroom. Using a projector, we have been alternating images of the children's homes displayed on our large shadow screen for the children to discover and discuss together! As the children become more comfortable independently navigating the classroom and more comfortable communicating with each other, we are continuing to observe the construction area evolve into an increasingly complex and collaborative workspace. Each day, the physical structures created in this space have continuously expanded in size and details. The children are demonstrating their autonomy, sense of place, and ownership in the classroom while they are observed independently selecting and utilizing all of the materials available to them when working on these impressive structures together. Updated construction materials and arrangement - Week 3 Not only have the size and complexity of the structures grown, but so has the dialogue and interactions between the children sharing the space. We have noticed that the children are feeling increasingly confident sharing their ideas with one another. Often, they are then building off of those shared ideas to expand on their collaborative work. The inclusivity and collaboration taking place within this area of our classroom has been inspiring!
Today's structure (in the images below) evolved from a house, to a forest, to a tower, to a castle, and finally... The St. John's Bell Tower! Following a walk around the school with the intention of both familiarizing ourselves with our environment and to explore undiscovered places, Gus returned to the classroom after his "school tour" with a strong interest in the school bell tower. Although we have yet to explore the tower itself, a small group of children discovered the stairs to the tower located in Molly's office.
Perhaps in the near future we will continue up the staircase to discover what's behind the bell tower door!
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May 2024
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