The Atelier |
This learning centre is where students can come together and express themselves through a multitude of mediums. It is a place for experiences, connections, creativity and communication (Fitzharris, K., 2017). An Atelier is an environment that promotes knowledge and creativity, suggesting questions and generating evocations, they are places where "the hundred languages" are enacted. This area would include access to different art mediums for creative expression; which would include: glitter, paper mâché, paint, construction paper, stamped, and much more.
|
“Creativity seems to emerge from multiple experiences, coupled with a well-supported development of personal resources, including a sense of freedom to venture beyond the known.” —Loris Malaguzzi, The Hundred Languages of Children |
Mini-AteliersA "Mini-Atelier" is similar to the above mentioned Atelier, these would be stand-alone areas of the room where children can experiment with loose parts and unusual materials.
Numeracy: Students have the choice of natural materials when exploring various concepts and applying skills. There will be a focus on learning through play to combine, and extend learning. At this Atelier, students can use natural materials (like sticks) to represent numbers, and show tallies. Science: An area where exploration can happen through experimenting and interacting with different materials. With changing materials throughout the year, based on student interest and inquiry, they can discover and extend their knowledge while asking questions and seeking inquiry. Students, at this Atelier, can use magnifying glasses to student patterns and close-up textures of rocks and leaves that they find outside. They also may study Butterflies before we release them to help pollinate a garden. Literacy: Language can come in many forms. Within the classroom there will be a cozy area where students can read, listen to and interact with language and literacy. There will be bins of loose parts to inspire creative stories, and books for both research and pleasure. The environment will be comfortable and inviting for little minds. These spaces will be scattered around the classroom for students to interact with language. They will have the chance to study phonics, listen to others, read and write. |