The Makerspace Lab has been one huge venture. We went from an empty classroom to a space to create, make messes, make mistakes, try new ideas and create amazing projects. In the short time it has been open, so much has happened.Students have created trees out of blocks and pipe cleaners, leaf cleaning machines, cardboard games, video games, pianos and so much more.
How does this tie into the curriculum? All of the projects do have content connection are tied directly to SOL standards, but they are so much more. No project will ever be completed as an individual. Students may or may not be placed in teams meaning the teachers may assign groups or the students can choose who they want to work with. Does this present issues? Sure does! There are obstacles the young minds must overcome.
They must learn to respect other's opinions. They must learn to listen with an open mind. They must learn how to share their ideas knowing they may not work. They must learn to compromise.
ideas and adapt to meet the standards and team work that is expected in the room. There will be weeks the students may learn individually, such as 5th grade using Code.org. This skill, along with others will lead to larger projects and creating more amazing things.
