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Pride in Accomplishment
The learning is tangible and visible. In other subjects, it can be hard for students to immediately appreciate what skill students have mastered, while in woodshop, students see the evidence of what they accomplish – a testament to their achievement and high standards in the form of a durable project they will have for years.
The Ability to Make
Beginning in Grade 3, students build foundational woodworking skills. They learn to work with a variety of tools, gain skill in making careful measurements, and develop techniques or methods of working that allow their artistic voice to shine through. By Grade 5, they produce boxes with mitered corners and explore the intersection of mechanical movement and fine art to create beautiful and kinetic sculptures. In Grades 6, 7, and 8, students choose among a number of electives, with opportunities to craft a finished piece of furniture and design sculptures working with wood and wire.
Overcoming Obstacles
As they tackle the challenges inherent in each subsequent project, students learn to follow the instructions and master the techniques that, over time, elevate the quality of their work. They establish good work habits, such as “measure twice, cut once,” and transferable skills, like double-checking their work. They gain comfort with accepting feedback and independent problem-solving. They build collaboration skills, partnering with fellow students, and communicating as they articulate their goals and strategies–qualities that are central to The Park Portrait.
With the skills they gain, they achieve the satisfaction of being able to say “I made this. I am creative.”