I'm wrapping up my last full week with rotation classes before moving on to mural painting with our 5ths and classes with Zamorano Way grade level winners, so I thought it would be fun to explore another digital app with our students.
This week, kids are experimenting with the
Assembly app. It's a very engaging and kids of all ages (and adults;) can have success with it. This week, 2nds, 3rds, and 5ths have all played with this app. Before starting the lesson we briefly look at a few of Josh Brill's illustrations discuss his use of computer programs when he designs. We look at his use of geometric shapes to create a wide variety of animal illustrations.
We also revisit a couple collage projects kids have done this year. When introducing the Assembly app, I emphasize that using it is like creating a collage without the mess- no glue caps to put on, no cut paper scraps to clean up. If students don't like their design, they can delete it. They aren't wasting supplies. There is a freedom to fail present, which can be liberating for kids and adults alike.
I put together a quick tutorial video that I share with the kids that shows them the basics of shape manipulation in the app. After that, they partner up and experiment and play with multiple designs throughout the period. There are only a few rules with this project- that they work well with and respect their design teammate, they create a creature of some sort, and they must include a minimum of 11 shapes in their final design.
When teams have a design they are satisfied with, they save it in their ipad camera roll, so that I can transfer it to my computer and email their files to their classroom teachers. After saving an image, they are free to erase their design and continue experimenting.
I love the variety of designs that have has been produced this week. There has been some great teamwork on display as well.
