Grades 6/7 Students Learn Woodworking Skills Through Lap Desk Project

Grades 6/7 students in Melissa Hulton's class at Loughborough Public School recently participated in a hands-on woodworking project, building lap desks with guidance from Jeff Cardy, an elementary STEM teacher with the Limestone District School Board's Experiential Learning Team. 

Students learned woodworking techniques, measurement skills, and the importance of tool safety while creating their projects. 

Here are some reflections from students about the experience: 

"First, we learned safety skills. One of them was 'bit before bat' and 'bat before bit.' When you're putting a drill back together, you put the bit in before the battery. This helps prevent the drill from starting accidentally and keeps everyone safe." 

"Next, we learned woodworking skills like finding the true centre of a board and working with fractions.These skills are useful when building things or making home improvements. We also learned how to drill pilot holes so the wood wouldn't split." 

"Mr. Cardy explained that the skills we're learning now can help us later in life. Even if we don't become carpenters or construction workers, knowing how to use tools safely is an important life skill." 

"It's important to know how to work safely, use tools properly, and set ourselves up for success. Mr. Cardy showed us how to do that, and we had a lot of fun." 

"Overall, I really enjoyed the woodworking experience. The lessons Mr. Cardy taught us will stay with us, and they showed us how high school pathways can help prepare us for the future." 

Photos and quotes submitted by Melissa Hulton.