In school year 2018-19, both grade 1 and grade 2 were standalone classes. This year they combined to become a 2/3 class. This is the third year that Orchard Valley has followed the Bay School Model of combining classes, and the rhythm is really taking shape in the heart of the school and the work of the faculty. Here we'll take a look at how this works in handwork class.
The first year two classes are combined merges the children into a new social group and broadens the range of academic and social strengths than those that already exist in an age-based group. This presents a wonderful learning opportunity for all, as the 2/3 handwork class shows.
Handwork Teacher Kate Camilletti began the year with the traditional grade 2 project -- a knitted rainbow ball. The project was new for the 2nd graders, but a repeat for the 3rd graders. As such, Kate worked with the second graders and students new to knitting on the basic knitted ball, while the other children created a ball that was fashioned more like a baseball, "requiring more mathematics and a deeper process," Kate said.
Working on the same project, but differently, was a great way to bring the class together. The children are now either knitting a gnome or learning to crochet, with Kate assigning students to a project based on where they are individually and not based on grade. Knitting is the foundation, she says, while crocheting is different for the mind and the hands -- and not everyone takes to it. So Kate works to meet each student where they are so that they feel a sense of "joyful challenge" in their work. The students will move back and forth between knitting and crocheting as they progress through the remaining projects this year -- string bags, potholders, and dolls.
