This post is an update from a previous post, view here, in which our children became engrossed in pattern making on our light-table. We asked the children what additional items they would like to add to this experience and they excitedly warbled off an array of suggestions. Some quite practical, others such as ‘Kangaroo’s’ left me scratching my head. I did once see tiny little Kangaroo figurines, but when and where currently escapes my memory. So we added in what the children requested (that fitted into the realm of ‘possible’) such as: Stars, Moons, Hearts… etc… much to the children’s delight!
And ooooh WOW, this is what they came up with!
By Kate:
You really need to look closely at Kate’s to see the ‘patterns within patterns’… truly amazing! Scroll back and take a closer look! 🙂
And then this…
By charlie:
And this…
By Max:
And finally, this…
By Grace:
What clever little people! The children absolutely loved this experience and spent lengthy periods of time creating their works of art! Embedded within this activity, and maybe not recognized at first glance, is the opportunity it provides children to develop their skills in ‘pattern making’ As their teacher, you are able to gauge which children are showing strength in the ‘logic-mathematical domain’ by observing them at play (Howard Gardner’s ‘Multiple Intelligence’s’ theory). Then your observations can be related back to the ‘EYLF – Outcomes’.
I would love to hear feedback from readers as to how you use the light-table with your children as a learning resource.
WOW! They are deliciously beautiful Karen … and Kate and Charlie and Max and Grace!
Donna 🙂 🙂
Thanks Donna. They are amazing aren’t they. The children showed such concentration and great care. Really blew me away to just sit and watch them work.
I love the creativity in each pattern. The circular guide is a unique way to promote pattern development! So many more opportunities than typical linear patterns. Kudos!
Oh my gosh! These are BEAUTIFUL…
Thanks Randi. It was a real eye opener for me to see how well the children took to this activity. They absolutely loved it and created some amazing patterns. I guess it is all about creating an environment that is engaging enough for the children to be driven to explore and accept the challenge. 🙂
Thanks Maria… all inspired by your wonderful work! 🙂
This is beautiful … I have to ask where did you get the green, yellow and brown gems from. Are the rings washers? and springs?
What a fantastic collection of loose parts.
The images are inspiring.
Lu-Ann
Thanks Lu-Ann! I am not sure where you are from Lu-Ann, but in Australia we have what we generally call ‘2 Dollar Stores’ which sell a variety of cheap items. This is where I purchased the gems from. Some of the disc shapes are fake chinese coins, also from the 2 dollar store, and the spring like circles are actually snazzy paper clips! 🙂
I love what your kids created! Can you advise me on a good tabletop light box to purchase? Thanks so much!
They are beautiful works of art, I agree! It is difficult for me to advise you on what to buy as I am unsure of your location. I am in Victoria (Australia) and purchased our light-table through MTA (Modern Teaching Aids). It was one of the most expensive ones available (au$700) and it is a ‘stand-alone’ table, with storage below. that remains in use within the room all the time. You can buy cheaper ones that sit on an existing table and then can be stowed away when not in use. It all depends I guess on your budget and intended use. One suggestion I will make is to purchase some clear vinyl to place over the top of the table when in use. I have seen some really badly scratched light tables that have lost their effectiveness. When the vinyl starts to look warn and tatty, it can be cheaply replaced. 🙂