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Knitting 101:

No Needles Required

Melanie Mulcaster

@the_mulc

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Why use finger knitting in the classroom?

  • Few resources required
  • Low threshold high ceiling applications
  • Cross curricular connections
  • Constructivist paradigm (actively constructing knowledge in social settings)
  • Beginning Makerspace exploration
  • Precursor to knitting with needles
  • Links to Coding

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Why Finger Knit?

https://www.bcgperspectives.com/Images/New_Vision_for_Education_WEF_2015.pdf

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Literacy floats on a sea of talk.

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Adapted from James Britton

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Math Connections

Patterning and Algebra:

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  • describe growing number patterns (number of stitches/rows)
  • create a repeating pattern (add beads)
  • explore ratios - How much yarn is needed to produce a stand __cm long?

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Math Connections

Measurement:

-create strands to use as non-standard units of measurement

-create strands to measure specific lengths

-create strands to explore perimeter of objects

-create strands to explore circumference

-explore area: connect strands to make rectangular/circular blankets, rugs, hats etc.

Geometry

-use strands to create different geometric shapes

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Social Awareness

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Language Links

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  • Oral Language (listening and speaking)
  • Procedural Writing
  • Reading (analyse media tutorials)
  • Media Literacy (create media tutorials)
  • Creative writing/Retell
  • Stories around created objects (Hungry Caterpillar?)

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Now Let’s Make Something!

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Sample Projects to Explore (or create your own)

Snake

Beaded Necklace

Infinity Scarf

Winter Hat

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Additional Resources

Finger Knitting Projects: http://www.stitchandunwind.com/finger-knitting-for-kids/

Finger Knitted Animal Ears: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lWgId-A3Lc

Finger Knitted Rug:: http://www.flaxandtwine.com/2012/02/woven-finger-knitting-hula-hoop-rug-diy/

Finger Knit a Blanket: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YTenXk52GI

Why Teach Knitting: http://www.craftyarncouncil.com/classbenefits.html

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Thanks!

Please share your projects/ideas

You can find me at @the_mulc & melanie.mulcaster@peelsb.com

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Credits

Special thanks to all the people who made and released these awesome resources for free:

  • Presentation template by SlidesCarnival
  • Photographs by Unsplash