Different Pipes

Pipe cleaner are supposed to be used for removing moisture and residue from smoking pipes. However, ask any teacher and they will tell you 1,000 ways to use it in the classroom. They are a versatile tool that can be twisted and turned to create anything a child can dream up. Add in the colors, texture and they can easily be cut and 1,000 ways just quadrupled!

In our Makerspace, we have found a few great ways to be creative. Students were given a handful of them and a purple card with a direction. They might vary from a container to hold pencils or pulley system to lift a bag off the floor.

Working in small groups, they needed to discuss ways to create the item described on their card. Collaboration and critical thinking are major parts of this project. Students need to share thoughts, compromise and listen to other's idea.

Their creations proved that learning through play is so important.