The Cardboard Challenge is an amazing event that takes place each fall. If you have never watched the video about Caine's Arcade, please do. It makes me cry every time.
This year a teacher in each building is participating and we are having so much fun!
At Brewster, we started out with a paper challenge. Using 2 sheets of 8x11" paper and masking tape, what can you create? These 1st graders had a lot of fun coming up with all kinds of ideas. For some, it was challenging simply because there were no specific directions given. They needed to use their own creativity.
This year a teacher in each building is participating and we are having so much fun!
At Brewster, we started out with a paper challenge. Using 2 sheets of 8x11" paper and masking tape, what can you create? These 1st graders had a lot of fun coming up with all kinds of ideas. For some, it was challenging simply because there were no specific directions given. They needed to use their own creativity.
Next, their classroom teacher shared some of the Caine's Arcade video with them. When they came to the library the next Wednesday, there were lots of cardboard boxes of all kinds waiting for them. We had masking tape and string available too. Another really interesting addition were the materials from Makedo. These include plastic hinges, bolts/nuts, punches, and saws. The Makedo products are designed for students in grades K-3 to use with cardboard, so they are safe. At first they were simply a novelty, but pretty quickly, the students figured out how to use them purposefully.
We have had 2 sessions of the Cardboard Challenge so far. Students are creating some really interesting things. And they love it! They are focused and hard at work. I just love to see them smile. When they go back to their classroom, they write about what they have done or are creating. I love this reflecting that they get to do.
At another school that I work at, the Cardboard Challenge was loved so much last year that the 2nd graders asked if they could participate again this year. And so they are. While I haven't been in to see their creations, I hear a lot about some zip lines that are being constructed. The Makedo materials are being used by this group as well. I can't wait to check out what they have been making.
Special thanks to the Coginchaug Valley Education Fund for supporting us!
At another school that I work at, the Cardboard Challenge was loved so much last year that the 2nd graders asked if they could participate again this year. And so they are. While I haven't been in to see their creations, I hear a lot about some zip lines that are being constructed. The Makedo materials are being used by this group as well. I can't wait to check out what they have been making.
Special thanks to the Coginchaug Valley Education Fund for supporting us!
| I am crossing my fingers this week because I am hoping to connect my students to someone who makes a living creating with cardboard: Chairigami. I was talking with another teacher about Caine's arcade and she mentioned that there was someone who was making furniture out of cardboard in the nearby city of New Haven. I couldn't resist emailing him and inviting him to connect with these classes. I hope we can work something out! |  |
RSS Feed
