Hands-on Learning- A practice that I will ever stand by! For many students who are kinesthetic learners, learning through physical activity is the doorway to joyful and successful memory- making. One of my favorite units that involves hands-on learning is my “Apprenticeship Project.” In 4th grade, students learn about American Colonial Times. Because apprenticeship was common in this era, students learn what it was like to be an apprentice.
To begin, each child completes an apprenticeship application for the job they desire. After reviewing each application, I place the children in the job that fits them best with consideration to their choice. They then “open their workshops” and each “apprentice” creates an item for their trade. We have busy blacksmiths make chains, creative cabinet makers, collaborative coopers, wonderful wigmakers, careful candlemakers, and even educated apothecaries!
At the end of the unit, we set the classroom up like a little village, with apprentices standing in their shops ready to show off their wares. Parents and other students stop by each “shop” and the apprentices tell the visitors how they crafted their masterpeices. Then the apprentices switch roles, and get to see the work of their classmates.
The unit is fun and meaningful for families and students alike, teaching life and social skills, autonomy, creativity, and history all together. See the photos to get a glimpse of it all, and be inspired to try hands-on learning yourself!
Learning Missions with Miss M. 