The Block Area in the West Wing consists of mostly wooden unit blocks, while the East Wing Building Space includes more open-ended materials that present themselves with familiar problems in similar, yet more challenging ways, such as how to balance and arrange things.
Dex and Max were building together and Kai was building next to them on the same platform. When Dex introduced the plexiglass sheet, Kai was worried for his construction.
Kai: “No!” Kai interpreted Dex’s intention and foresaw a disastrous outcome for his own structure.
Dex: “Oh, man!” After the plexi crashed into Kai’s work.
Kai: “If you make it too tall, it’s going to fall again.” Kai joined Dex and Max in their work to assist in considering the other structures on the platform.
Working in teams, they supported the plexi and searched for foundation pieces to support the opposite end.
Skills Acquired-kindergarden readiness
Children exercised their knowledge of gravity as their constructions fell, and learned that different building materials have different properties that affect a structure’s strength and stability.
Scientific dispositions including curiosity, the power to project outcomes based on experience, an eagerness to experiment, and delight in collaboration were are also being developed.
Problem solving was demonstrated by seeking solutions to problems through trial and error, and collaboration.
Socially and emotionally, the children practiced many important skills such as empathy, cooperation, and evolving as part of a group from a place of individual concerns.