Making suspension rattles and other American Indian artifacts

Second graders are experiencing the culture of American Indians from the Eastern Woodlands, Plains and Southwest by using natural resources to create ceremonial rattles, medicine bags, sand paintings and corn husk dolls!   

Thanks to a Shannon Grant written by second grade teacher Nancy Williams, all Baker-Butler second grade students have been making suspension rattles as part of their Native American Unit.

With guidance from art teacher, Ms. Purdon and music teacher, Mrs. Rehorn, the boys and girls have been creating their rattles with the use of “Y” shaped sticks, yarn, wire, and assorted beads and bells for the suspension element of the instruments. Ms. Mays (media specialist) and Ms. Grundler (music) have also collaborated on this project.

The designing and building of the rattles occurs in our Creation Station. It is a great example of collaborating and interdisciplinary teaching among five 2nd grade teachers, two art teachers, two music teachers, and our media specialist.

Suspension rattles are found in the Native American culture but also in African culture as well.  The students are learning how indigenous materials are used to create instruments.

A coastal Native American may use small shells for a rattle, where a woodlands Native American may use the shells of nuts and bone fragments.

Funds received from the Edgar and Eleanor Shannon Foundation provided the materials for this grant.  

Through hands-on learning experiences students connect to the challenges and creative thinking of American Indians. 

 

Check out this story about some of our special canine volunteers!

Baker-Butler is proud to partner with Service Dogs of Virginia and James Madison University to provide a unique learning experience for some of our students. Volunteer tutors bring specially-trained service dogs who engage with students as they increase their reading skills.

The reading program, which has been in Albemarle County for a number of years, has quickly become a favorite of many students.

Check out this great story by the Charlottesville Newsplex.

School Board visit

Today we were excited to welcome Ms. Pam Moynihan, who serves as one of our 7 Albemarle County School Board members. Ms. Moynihan visited classes and met with many students and teachers. One of the highlights of her time here was when she visited Ms. Schwab's first grade classroom. The students shared personal stories and their writing activities about Veterans' Day with Moynihan, who is a veteran of the US Army. Thanks to Ms. Moynihan for a great visit to Baker-Butler!

Happy Veterans' Day!

Happy Veterans' Day from the students and staff of Baker-Butler Elementary School. We are grateful for your service and for the service of our active duty parents and community members. Here is a mural in our front lobby that Ms. Schwab's 1st grade class made for our veterans.