Developing Life Skills through Woodworking
Do you remember taking a “shop” class? Engineering and Technology Education, previously known as “Tech Ed” or “Industrial Arts”, was a standard elective for young men (and more recently, women) in middle and high school. In my 6th grade Engineering and Technology Education course, I remember making a small fountain pen holder that is still sitting on my grandmother’s shelf – almost 20 years later. This one project is the single thing I remember from 6th grade. Making is truly magical.
Woodworking has long been seen as a trade, and indeed it is a special skill. But you don’t have to be a master woodworker or carpenter to incorporate woodworking into your curriculum. Maplewoodshop has developed a woodworking program that includes the hand tools, curriculum, and professional development to bring hands-on learning to students of all ages. Maplewoodshop is an integrated STEAM curriculum and has a recommended project sequence, which allows students to start with a simple String Art project and work up to more complex projects, like a three-string guitar or chair.
1st Maker Space recently partnered with Anderson Preparatory Academy (APA) to launch woodworking in the makerspace at middle and high school. Anderson Prep Academy is focused on project-based learning, and they have found value in adding woodworking to teach many skills beyond just craftsmanship.
“Woodworking require students to slow down, collaborate, and plan. It requires patience. They practice measuring and math alongside art. The best part is when they get to take their project home and share it with their family. It is fun to both teach and participate in!”
Maplewoodshop can now be found in classrooms, summer camps, and after school programs across the United States. The program includes a toolchest that opens up to display tools and workbenches for up to 16 students to work at the same time. The workbenches are compatible with the Maker Table series from 1st Maker Space. The online videos and instructional materials include training videos, lesson plans, and handouts for all projects and are available in English and Spanish.
Interested in learning more?
Contact 1st Maker Space for a free demo today at info@1stmakerspace.com