Observation and Post Observation Discussion

30/07/2021
Observer - Jock Ellis (Team Leader)
Class: Year 8 Soft Materials

Jock observed a class of year 8's that were on track to begin their Hoodies - starting with the Ribbing. In this lesson, students revisit the 'Parts of the Sewing Machine' task where they label parts of the sewing machine that are essential to understand when using a machine (I've revised this task a number of times to ensure the wide range of learners can complete this with minimal support), then how to thread the sewing machine, and finally complete a 1.5cm seam sample - the seams on the Hoodie are all 1.5cm wide.

After gluing the seam sample in their books, I demonstrated how to trace, pin, and then cut the ribbing - showing how to keep the fabric flat on the table for safety. I've noticed students can have trouble when cutting out the Ribbing and encourage them to stand or try using different shears. These were then straight stitched and popped away in their blue bags for safe keeping. The Ribbing (waistband and cuffs) are the simplest part of the Hoodie to begin with and a great way to ensure confidence when year 8's are back on the sewing machines or if they are a newbie, learning how to operate a sewing machine. 

    

On reflection, Jock and I discussed how the lesson went and how I meet the standards required. I have a Tuakana Teina approach to teaching and learning in my room, as there are often students who pick up the skills/techniques easily and are happy to support their peers when they can - this helps in large groups when student's can help one another. Jock talked to me about the use of positive praise in my class and introducing a reward system for the Fabric room. I now have a SHINE jar where students pop a raffle ticket in, if they have been given one, and at the end of their cycle, names are pulled out and they can choose to take home a Felt Monster, a Drawstring Bag, or a Pencil Case that I have made (I make prototypes with most classes to demonstrate techniques). I felt like this was a really positive way to encourage the SHINE values in the Fabric room and students seemed genuinely happy to be taking something home that was made by the teacher.