I left out an assortment of cardboard boxes and some marbles as an invitation to play. The boys added some of their wooden resources.

Resources

  • Egg boxes
  • Cardboard tubes
  • Cardboard boxes
  • Marbles

Method

I alsways take it as a good sign when they dive in before I’ve had change to photograph the tray properly.

The boys delegated roles and worked to their strengths.

Finn built the towers and Ioan planned and constructed the marble run.

This video was their first attempt at the marble run. What I liked watching, was the process of trial and error throughout.

This made me smile, to see how far they’ve come since building their first marble run this time last year.

DfES Early Learning Goals (2017)

Communication and language

ELG 01 – Listening and attention:

Children give their attention to what others say and respond appropriately, while engaged in another activity.

ELG 03 – Speaking:

Children express themselves effectively, showing awareness of listeners’ needs. They use past, present and future forms accurately when talking about events that have happened or are to happen in the future. They develop their own narratives and explanations by connecting ideas or events.

Physical development

ELG 04 – Moving and handling:

Children show good control and co-ordination in large and small movements. They handle equipment and tools effectively.

Personal, social and emotional development

ELG 06 – Self-confidence and self-awareness:

Children are confident to try new activities, and say why they like some activities more than others. They are confident to speak in a familiar group, will talk about their ideas, and will choose the resources they need for their chosen activities. They say when they do or don’t need help.

ELG 08 – Making relationships:

Children play co-operatively, taking turns with others. They take account of one another’s ideas about how to organise their activity. They show sensitivity to others’ needs and feelings, and form positive relationships with adults and other children.

Mathematics

ELG12 – Shape, space and measures:

Children use everyday language to talk about size, position, distance and time to solve problems. They recognise, create and describe patterns. They explore characteristics of everyday objects and shapes and use mathematical language to describe them.