Students learn more when their classroom lessons are supplemented with hands-on activities. Fall is a perfect season to weave in fun crafts that will aid in online learning. Taking a break from the screen and using fine and gross motor skills will encourage students to learn more.
· Scarecrows
Creating scarecrows and complementary activities can be tailored for all age groups. For younger students, cutting out and assembling preprinted scarecrows is a great activity. Older students can research the background of scarecrows, write stories featuring scarecrows, and/or learn about an iconic scarecrow that only needs a brain. Math, science, and environmental skills can be woven together as students fabricate their life-size figures. The criteria can be adapted to meet the curriculum.
· Pumpkin Launchers
Another fun fall craft activity is design and build pumpkin launchers. This can be adapted for smaller fall fruits or vegetables, such as apples. You can provide students with materials from which they need to create their catapult. Or it can be a more involved craft project in which students draw their design, develop a materials list, and build their launcher. A competition can be held to see whose apple or pumpkin launches the farthest distance. Safety rules need to be written and adhered to.
· Pumpkin Boats
Learn more about pumpkin or apple uses in the creation of a boat. In this fun fall craft project, students will detail plans to construct a boat. You can use similar criteria as in the pumpkin launchers for the boat. For connections to online learning, the boat must be able to float. You can decide if it needs sails or to carry any weight in it. A number of connections to science and math can be made.
· Play-Doh
Celebrate World Play-Doh Day, which is recognized on September 16th. The ideas of what can be created with Play-Doh are almost endless. Play-Doh can be made from scratch; it can be scented to mirror the aromas of fall. It is a great way to stretch your fingers after your day at online school.