Wednesday, October 6, 2010

geometry

sixth grade gets precise


Our dear sixth grade students of Davis Waldorf are in the second block of the year: geometry. We shifted from the organic, amorphous shapes of rocks in the geology block to the precision of geometric lines and shapes. I used the acronym "TLCC" to give structure to the block.

Technique, Language, Construction, and Calculation.

The students are learning proper techniques of using a compass and a straightedge to develop the precision of an architectural draftsman! They are learning the language of shapes, the parts and pieces that describe the points and lines of circles, triangles, and parallelograms. Through constructions, they will continue to hone their drafting skills to create beautiful artistic work. And finally, we will calculate formulas for areas of shapes.

Within the block, I decided to offer them short biographies of Frank Lloyd Wright, Piet Mondrian, and Euclid to give a historical and artistic perspective to geometry.
My chalkboard drawing for the block, called Blue Right Triangle, was inspired by stained glass designs by Frank Lloyd Wright. (If you can tell, I had a hard time letting go of my Mount Lassen drawing so I incorporated a portion of it in the new drawing!)

11 comments:

Sarah said...

Gorgeous. I love the connection to art and architecture. Both my girls are studying geometry this year ( grades 6 & 9) and I think we will go for a tour of the local Frank Lloyd Wright house this weekend before it closes for the season.

Gabriele Kubo said...

Dear Rick,

I adore your chalkboard drawings!!! Pure art, your students are blessed to have you as a teacher, I only can repeat myself again and again!! Just absolutely great!

Rick Tan III said...

Thanks, Gabriele, I am blessed to have them.

Rick

Sadie from allnaturalme.com said...

Rick ~ You really rocked on this one!! Awesomeness.

Teaching Handwork said...

reallllllly lovely!!! please keep posting your beautiful work. it is an inspiration to see!

Grandma said...

I like the combination of geometry, drafting and architecture lessons, very interesting and beautiful. The incorporation of Mount Lassen was a very special touch!

Wild Maple Wool said...

Just found your blog--- amazing! I'm a Waldorf grad, and now Waldorf homeschooling mama to almost 3! I look forward to reading more inspirational posts!

~Samantha

onegoldensun said...

Your drawing is absolutely stunning! I love how you incorporated your last drawing into the new one. I am so happy to look ahead to grade 6 with inspiration from your blog!

emily

Sally Haughey said...

So great to see inside your classroom! Especially for someone who does not live near a Waldorf School! Thank you!

Jen said...

Rick, can I ask which chalk you recommend for blackboard drawings? Would like to find a cheaper alternative to the mercurius brand. Thanks & happy holidays!
Jen

Rick Tan III said...

Jen, we mostly use a chalk that comes from the Netherlands. It's not any cheaper than Mercurius, but worth the price because of the depth of colors. We have some available in our Etsy shop right now.