Lily, Eloise, and Emmaline decided to bring an idea to reflection meeting for functional input.
Emmaline: We found this frame in the building space and we think we can use it as a window.
Eloise: That’s what we need support with. We are trying to figure out where to add the window.
Emmaline: Maybe we can add some glass in the middle.
Lia: If we put the tape inside the frame and then add some tape maybe it can stay there or we can make a hole, like a line inside.
Luca: We will need an electrical saw for that.
Clarke: Yes, we can ask different people in our community.
Matan: I believe my dad has one. He can support us with the windows.
A different group of children met and took measurements for the glass they want to add inside the wood frame.
Nathaniel and Sammy worked on a note: “13 inches by 11.5 inches is the measurement of the glass for our window.”
Teddy: I know we also need a windshield for the truck. We can use one glass for the windshield and a couple of other windows here! (pointing at the side of the truck)
Matan: We need to move a couple things from the front. We need to, like, modify the bumper.
Lily: We need to do it slowly. Matan, are you worried the whole fire truck will break?
Matan: Yes.
Teddy: I got it. I can move the pieces slowly, Matan.
As the children reflected, they realized they have the tools and extra support they need to make the windows for their Fire Truck. This project has become an invitation for the whole community to collaborate and now the children are beginning to think beyond the school walls and brainstorming ideas about who they can bring in to support their design. As the Fire Truck becomes more complex, we are reminded of the value of collaboration when projects are offered within a long term focus. This valued time gives the children the ability to revisit and deepen their work, which reveals and develops their capabilities.
-Teacher Adriana