Building the Community Space

Everyday I hear "Are we going outside?"  Ever since this idea got started the students have been eager to work on their outside classroom and to be in the forest.  Our latest challenge was to build a community space to gather as a class.  Once again the students took on the task with gusto.  As I was reflecting on the learning that took place in building the community triangle I was amazed at the amount we accomplished in such a short time.

This is what we did:

We measured the space. First by measuring the inside space using a variety of measuring tools, including a new one, the trundle wheel.  We measured using both standard and metric units and found both the dimensions and area of the space.  We decided on a triangle with 15 foot sides.  We needed 15 seats and a triangle has three sides - 15 is divisible by 3!

 We needed help to cut the wood.  A small group of students wrote to Pippin, using a strategy they had learned previously while writing e-mails to other faculty.

 The students then designed the benches. They had originally thought about making stools but decided to change to benches as then more people could be invited to share the space.  At 15ft long, the children worked out they would have 3ft each!  They then sketched their ideas and made scale models using natural materials.  Using a handsaw was an introduced skill, and the students used tools they were already familiar with.  After conferring with Pippin a design was chosen.

 We then began to gather the trees.

 The students measured 15 ft lengths for Pippin to saw.  

 Then they had to really work together to carry those heavy logs and place them in the space.

The students took it in turns to steady the log and saw off rough patches to make the benches smooth to sit on. Then the supports were then placed to keep the logs off of the ground.

 While all this was going on, a team of students got together to clear the path from the classroom to the entrance.  This was a spontaneous action, decided upon by that small group.  A good example of initiative and leadership.

 Our finished space!

We can't wait to use it!