how things fit...

We are in the process of examining the Clear Spring School curriculum and since we tend to be far more flexible than other teaching environments, we are establishing pillars or anchor points allowing for flexibility, thus describing our methods rather than creating documents that are not useful. Re-examination of the curriculum is an important part of preparing for re-accreditation and it's important that we do what we say we do.

The first pillar (or anchor) is to start with the interests of the child. The second is to plan for integration between grade levels and a high level of coordination between members of the teaching staff. Just these two points are revolutionary in comparison to most K-12 teaching environments. Integration between teaching staff and grade levels makes the educational environment more fulfilling and engaging for all, plus a whole lot more fun.

In my own woodshop, I'm also concerned with how things fit. If you are reading this on Facebook, you'll see only one photo so the second, if you are interested, can be seen in the Wisdom of the Hands blog from which this is automatically shared. http://wisdomofhands.blogspot.com

The first photo shows my go-to tool of choice. that I used to square routed channels for the leg sections to fit. This chisel was one that was used in the original Sloyd Teacher Seminary at Nääs as you will see if you look close. The blade of the chisel is stamped to identify it as an original tool made specifically for that school.

It gives me a sense of connection with things larger than myself to use tools like this. The handle is one I made to match the original style. The joint being cut is to connect the coopered leg sections to the trestle that runs along on the underside of the table top. Channels cut in the various parts fits them rigidly and very precisely to each other.

The second photo shows how a leg unit fits the trestle. Perfecto. A shallow channel in the trestle keeps the legs from twisting once they are bolted tightly in place. The deeper channel shown in the photo above is the one that the trestle rests upon.

Make, fix, create, and assist others in learning and growing likewise.