JCEA Reuse Your Dues Winner!
Terry Sams

Piedmont Elementary School
Quilting Project
Quilt making is a part of America's warp and weft, and evidence of its importance in our culture are the many legends and myths about quilts to be found in the old quilt books still on our library shelves. Quilting is also a part of Appalachian history that is full of mathematical principles, history, writing and art. Therefore, a unit on quilts provides the adaptability for studying mathematical concepts such as geometry, measurement, and fractions in realistic and practical ways. This goes to further the students' understanding that math is useful and exists in our lives. Quilting will also help student understand and appreciate the rich heritage this has as a craft and an art. 

Quilts are full of stories that generate wonder and curiosity. Therefore this unit also provides opportunities to study history, reading, writing and the principles of art. 

A patchwork unit will benefit all students in academic areas but it is especially beneficial to students with special needs. These students are often better at using their hands and will have an opportunity to succeed in ways they may never have. This unit will build self-esteem and self-confidence. 

One of the exciting things about this unit is that no prior knowledge is necessary. Everything can be taught and learned. This unit will provide a brief framework of ideas that could then be tailored to the students' input and their interest. They will all be learning things they did not know and can continue to learn as much as they desire whether it is the history involved, the art, the math, or even the actual sewing. 

Congratualtions Terry.  What a wonderful way to "tailor"
your curriculum to your students!