We have had some of the most beautiful weather in Melbourne over the last week or so. Very cold and frosty mornings with beautiful, still, sunny afternoons. We have made the most of the conditions by spending as much time outside as we can.
On a beautiful Thursday afternoon, Max became engaged with PVC pipes in the sandpit. Immersed in activity, he was attempting to create a ‘plumbing system’ to carry water from one location to another.
He clearly understood that he needed to angle the pipe to allow the water to flow. Without understanding the science of gravity, he was applying the principles to his work. It reminded me of the ancient Indus Valley civilization (4,000 years ago!) who used gravity to provide wells and baths in private homes! Max was attempting to elevate his pipes with whatever he could find in the sandpit. I suggested, “Maybe some blocks would be helpful to you here Max?”. A small smile spread across his face, then off he went. This is how I interpret the concept of Vygotsky’s “scaffolding”, minimal input, so as not to be invasive or controlling, but enough to allow a child to move on to a different level of thinking.
Max was delighted when he successfully got the water flowing. He took a peek up along the pipe to monitor his success.
When the bucket filled, Max faced the dilemma of what to do about the overflow.
He began to locate additional buckets around the full bucket.
Mmmm, he managed to collect some of the overflow, but most of it was lost.
Additional plumbing systems began to spring up around the sandpit as the children noticed and marvelled at Max’s wonderful work.
Some children had not realized the need to harness gravity in order for the water to flow and became puzzled. I suggested that they ask Max if he could help them with their problem. And of course Max was delighted to offer his advice.
An activity started by Max, became a wonderful learning experience for all of the children. In addition, Max was viewed as the ‘knowledgable one’ by his peers and the boost to his self-esteem was evident.
And while this was all happening, Isabelle was decorating a nearby tree with, “all the things I will need today”. I commented, “Oh is this your tool tree?” “Yes!”, she responded excitedly. Riley, offered to water Isabelle’s tree for her. I am not sure if this was in the hope that more tools would grow?
