My Teaching
Building Seasons
This lesson was one of the first times I was able to successfully implement basic Montessori philosophy into a community art education style lesson.While I am not a Montessori teacher, I have a deep respect for many of the child-based techniques implemented in Montessori lessons. This lesson was largely influenced by these techniques.
As in the Montessori style, learners were able to "choose their work", while still staying on the task of learning about the changing seasons. I had set up four tables, one for each of the seasons (pictured below). Learners were given very basic instructions. After a brief discussion on the seasons and what happens to the trees outside during each season, learners were invited to approach a table and begin building a season. There was a large variety of materials on each table, from buttons and pom poms to stickers and ribbon. My objectives were for learners to remain in a structured setting, but have the opportunity to teach themselves about the seasons through the exploration of materials in front of them.
As in the Montessori style, learners were able to "choose their work", while still staying on the task of learning about the changing seasons. I had set up four tables, one for each of the seasons (pictured below). Learners were given very basic instructions. After a brief discussion on the seasons and what happens to the trees outside during each season, learners were invited to approach a table and begin building a season. There was a large variety of materials on each table, from buttons and pom poms to stickers and ribbon. My objectives were for learners to remain in a structured setting, but have the opportunity to teach themselves about the seasons through the exploration of materials in front of them.
Outcomes
This lesson was very successful. My pedagogical objectives of encouraging independence and self-leading among learners were met. Students worked well, were immersed in the materials, and were excited about the work they created. It was clear they learned about the changing seasons through their very unique representations of each one. During the closing of the lesson, learners were also engaged in a discussion about Canadian climate, many children were surprised to learn that not every country in the world actually experiences four seasons, let alone snow!