The fifth graders are currently working on creating clay whistle sculptures. It is a challenging process to get the whistle working, but over two thirds of the class has been able to make their whistles create sound. We are hoping to get everyone's working by the end of next class. I have been comparing constructing the whistle to doing surgery. If you don't create the whistle parts just right, it won't work. They also have to use a steady hand and check for any blockages. After creating the actual whistle part of the sculpture, they have been asked to turn their whistle into something. Many students are turning their whistles into creatures, while others are turning them into abstract sculptures or winter-themed creations. In-process pictures are posted below, more pictures will be coming as they complete their sculptures.
The 5th graders started this project by learning about the history of whistle sculptures. They were fascinated with the death whistle used by the Aztec during battle. A video is posted below.