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4 days - Design for wooden frame weaving + art and design in IT.

This workshop programme is best suited to years 4 - 6. The children are given an introduction to the artist and his work as well as weaving generally and its place in the world today. The process of spinning is discussed and examined as a part of this but is not demonstrated as such.

The theme or subject for the work will be discussed with the teacher in advance. The children will start by making drawings about the subject. These may be imaginative or observational - this will be dictated by the theme. As the drawings are completed, the children will be asked to develop designs for their tapestries that are practical for them to weave. Examples of weaving will be examined and what is likely to be practical discussed. The designs will be produced using both paper with pencils, pastels, etc. and the computer. Each pupil should have the opportunity to use the computer for design work during the course of the workshop programme. Learning to use the software efficiently will be a part of the workshop but this cannot be developed to the same extent as the more specific approach taken in Option C.

The weaving done will be of a more traditional nature than that used in the Options A, B and D. However, different techniques will be taught and used where appropriate.

Assessment and criticism of the work is ongoing but the class will be asked to stop from time to time in order to discuss the progression being made from the original drawing to the design and on to the weaving itself. Problems will be encountered and must be solved - solutions are likely to be design adaptation and/or use of suitable techniques.

Outcomes for assessment and planning

The children will :-

See and discuss a contemporary artist's work.
Discover the relevance of weaving in our lives today and in the past.
Learn about the structures of yarn and weaving.
Develop language - common words, technical terms and creative use.
Investigate the properties of different materials.
Learn about symbols and how one thing can be used to represent another.
Experience using their hands and fingers in different ways by using a range of equipment and tools.
Develop spacial awareness.
Develop their observation skills.
Use mathematics as a part of the process of work (measuring, counting, addition, division, shape/balance, symmetry).
Criticise and assess their own work and that of others.
Deepen their understanding of the design concept.

and where the computer is used, children will also :-

Discover how some of the programme tools work and how to use them efficiently.
Use check lists as part of a plan to clarify how best to use the software.
Learn about keyboard shortcuts
Learn which tools are best for the job in hand.
Create different effects with standard tools and some options.
Gain better control of the mouse.
Learn to construct a design/drawing logically.
Learn about pixels.