MARYBETH and RJ'S CLASS NOTES

We recently welcomed parent and architect, Gregory Thorpe for the launch of our final project - the de- sign of a home for a mythological being or animal. Gregory led us through the early stages of the de- sign process, beginning first by introducing the word empathy, and how it relates to the work of an ar- chitect. After identifying their clients, the children had to consider their client’s unique needs in a home - a winged fairy, for example, may not need a staircase, but perhaps needs a rooftop doorway. The chil- dren explored loosely with open-ended materials; some sketched designs on paper, while others built rugged models out of straws, and clay. Since Gregory’s visit, the children have been tasked with bring- ing their design to fruition in the block area. Clients include mermaids, griffins, aliens, and more.

Throughout our home study we have been amassing a portfolio of our work. The children have begun binding simple accordion books which will contain their paintings, sketches, and photographs of their block structures.

In our weekly sessions with our book buddies, the children have been reading the Paperbag Princess by Robert Munsch, and have begun to craft their own paperbag clothing designs. Stay tuned for infor- mation about our upcoming fashion show!