“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn,” Benjamin Franklin uttered with resolve. Students progress from concrete learning to more abstract concepts; therefore, 7th graders begin to bridge the gap between the two. Teaching symbolism in my ELA class could be confusing, dry, and seem not relatable to a seventh grader, yet I was determined to weave learning, love, and meaning into the lesson.
Recently, my dear neighbors and former advisee experienced a tragic loss of property and pets. If I could connect my ELA content on symbolism to this family, I pictured a powerful learning experience, which would provide evidence of love to this family. The quilt would be a symbol of this love.
Mrs. Gillis, Mrs. Morgan, and Mrs. Remington were asked to join my ELA class for a lesson on oral histories. This invite had a focus on symbolism and storytelling with the medium of fabric. My initial contact with Mrs. Gillis was to create a fabric representation of love and compassion to the Chapman family. This would ensure a hands-on experience with symbolism with the 7th graders. Seed to fruition the magic and plan yielded a phenomenal experience for the students. I loved watching the kids pick out the hearts and embellishments to adorn their square.
“My nana taught me to sew. Can you take a picture of this and send it to me, so I can show her?” This was such a proud moment for a student, who wanted to celebrate the symbolic creation. The grand slam moment was the presentation of the quilt to Nick and Keaton Chapman on 6/1 in room 116 at Telstar Middle School. Donna's artistic expression coined “Mending the Heart '' titled by the 7th graders themselves, was breathtaking. Rose from the Bethel Citizen was here to capture the event. This involvement elevated the significance of the creation for the students because of the value that was placed on it by others.
Teaching is an art. Touching a life is precious. Taking the mystery out of why I am learning x,y,z, it’s priceless. I am so grateful to be a piece of the puzzle.
Amy Lilly - Grade 7 ELA
