In 6th grade Humanities at Whitford Middle School, we study some of the earliest civilizations. Part of what we would like to do is have our students create "new relics" as a part of our curriculum. A Glowforge is an etching machine that would allow this. Using the computer to design a piece of jewelry, a set of runes, or an etched leather amulet, students can use the Glowforge to make the object. They create the design, upload it to the forge, insert the material, and in a few minutes they have made their imagined object!

In my "specials" class, we have another opportunity to put this to work. As mentioned before, we have already created shirts, stickers, and other items for our student store (students "spend" positive behavior coupons for items, so it's cash-free). We can use the Glowforge to create more kid-made items for sale. For a certain number of coupons a student can custom etch their water bottle, wallet, or anything else. We want to give kids the opportunity to create things for their community.

An added benefit of this project is that is career-building as well as educational. As with our silk screen shirt making project last year, students can learn essential skills that could lead to a career. Taking an idea, developing it through iterations, and holding a final product in your hand is an invaluable skill set that this project teach. Yes, we make curricular connections, but the value in this extends beyond the classroom.

Won't you help us bring the Humanities to life for our 6th graders?

Thank you!