Learning with Lego

BRIC-A-BUILD is an engaging new activity for students at Channel Christian School that has been running since the start of the year.

This entertaining afterschool activity enables the students to get together and take part in challenges using Lego bricks.

Bric-a-build is held in the school library from 3-4.30pm each Monday, when the students enjoy building their imaginative constructions.

They have loved designing and building with Lego, so much so that even the teachers have shown an interest in building alongside them.

Both students and teachers have been provided with a variety of challenges with a set time limit — causing a buzz of eagerness and intensity.

Bric-a-build links to the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) program which integrates all four curriculum areas in real-world experiences.

Models such as tanks, cars, boats, scenes and buildings have been assembled during the challenges.

Students have been excited about constructing these models while spending time with their peers and letting their ideas flow.

This program is a cost-free activity for Grades 3-6 students at the school and it has enhanced students’ communication skills and their ability to work effectively together.

“We can show each other our creations and get some inspiration from our peers,” Year 6 student Otto Mumford said.

“[Bric-a-build] also teaches us how to communicate with each other,” he said.

The students have been teaching and learning from one another through the experience of playing and building with Lego.

This program allows students to share, interpret, create and build upon each other’s ideas.

School librarian Marc Mumford is the organiser of Bric-a-build.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for students to get together and express their physical thoughts,” he said.

Year 4 student DJ Duggan said he loves Bric-a-build because it’s a time out of school where you can relax, build Lego and have fun with friends.

At the end of the year, the students who were involved in the program will share their insights and their enjoyment of building with Lego.

They will also inform the school community about what they have created during the experience and the fun they have had building with Lego.

Bric-a-build will be loved for many years to come.