Applied Math Camp

Projects

Design thinking projects offer opportunities for students to explore problems and solutions. Students first create a list of needs and then explore ways to meet those needs. For example, in creating complex bags, the children complained about losing their pencils and their Homework slips in the bags. They looked at ways to keep track of those items and have easy access to them. By creating pockets in strategic places, some with flaps and some without, they believed their pencils and papers would be easily accessible. They created a paper model, which was adjusted to meet their needs, and then deconstructed the final model into pattern pieces. These projects further developed and strengthened finger dexterity, focus and concentration, and eye-hand coordination. They challenge the left brain and encourage students to express creativity and individuality. 

Double Drawstring Bag

The first project all new campers make is a double drawstring bag. They learn how a sewing machine works, the importance of following directions (also to thread the machine and fill a bobbin), using pins and threading a string through a case opening. Because this project has all straight seams, it is a great place to start for the novice learner. The bag is used to keep their materials for the week in one place. The single drawstring bag, a smaller adaption, is sewn to hold the deck of cards they create. Both projects require the children to figure out how much fabric is needed for the specific size of the bag, including seam allowance. What is the bag’s capacity, its volume? 

Deck of Cards

The students create four sets of zero to ten or 20 cards depending on campers' age to use to play card games at home after camp ends. Children need to rotate the cards to write the numbers so that no matter which way the cards end up, they are easy to read. There is always a discussion around which cards do not have to be rotated and why.

Pattern Making and Project 

Whether making shorts, skirts, or drawstring bags, the children create a pattern based on personal measurements. From these measurements, straight edges and curves are used to draw a personalized paper pattern for their project. Some groups have been interested in dying, and we schedule a time for that on Friday. 

Individual Sewing Projects

Once the group has an idea of what they want to make, they look at basic models, think about how they want to modify their versions and brainstorm the steps necessary to bring their ideas to life. They create four sketches before selecting one to draw in detail. Each child creates a paper mode/pattern, making note of the order of what needs to be created and sewn first, second, third, etc. There are several planning sessions before the assembly begins. It is at this stage where they usually learn about the seam ripper. Learn by doing!