A Patchwork of Learning

THE PROGRAM: A Patchwork of Learning is an interdisciplinary project in which students work independently and in groups to develop reading, writing, thinking, following directions and math skills. The program begins with a literature unit on a quilting theme. It culminates with the students making a class quilt and donating it to a local hospital. The activities are geared to the children's interests, abilities and learning styles. They foster self esteem, decision making and cooperative learning. Sharing their writing is an important compo nent as children learn to become comfortable as effective communicators.

Math is important to this unit as the children actually work on quilt making. They will learn about shapes, fractions, patterns and problem solving. As they actually begin the sewing process they will be increasing their eye hand coordi nation and social skills. They learn what life was like in the pioneer days of our country and how important quilting was. Photographs and videos can be taken as a patchwork of memories and the photographs can be set up as a visual quilt

THE STUDENTS: The project was done with 23 second grade students with a wide range of abilities. It could be adapted to suit K-5 students and implemented with any size class.

THE STAFF: Linda Tobias has developed and implemented A Patchwork of Learning. Mrs. Tobias has been teaching for 13 years, five years in New York City and the last eight years in North Rockland as a fifth, fourth and presently a second grade teacher. She is a former recipient of the Rockland Teacher Center Grant.

MATERIALS AND FACILITIES: Activities are conducted in a regular classroom setting. When working on the quilt, another adult in the room would be helpful to thread the needles. Literature books, worksheets, fabric, thread, needles, scissors, sewing chalk, rulers, batting and binding are needed. Laminated squares, rectangles and triangles of different colors are helpful in learning about patterning as well as a quilt board. An overhead projector is helpful when placing differ ent shapes and patterns together. A video camera may be used to document the unit from reading and writing to actual quilt making. A camera is optional.

OUTSIDE RESOURCES: No outside resources are necessary; however, quilters in the commu nity can come in to talk and share their quilts. The librarian, art, music, speech and resource teachers are also good resources in school. If possible, a trip to a display in a local library or community center of quilts will enhance the project.

OVERALL VALUE: Through hands-on learning activities, the children develop language skills and are eager to use and increase their knowl edge of quilts. It integrates the areas of written and expressive language, Social Studies, Art and Math. Children are involved in shared decision making and learn a sense of community as they donate the class quilt to a local charity.

RECOMMENDED FUNDING: $200.00

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

DEVELOPER: Linda Tobias

SCHOOL:

Thiells Elementary School
78 Rosman Road
Thiells, NY 10984
(914) 942 -3160

PRINCIPAL: David Rounds

DISTRICT: North Rockland School District

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