Creating rafts can be great fun. The challenge was to work in a team to build a raft using only natural sticks (no planed wood) and two lengths of string. It must be small enough to fit in the pond and strong enough to support the weight of an egg for a minimum of 10 seconds.
The children were given a set time for their build, then the rafts were tested. This testing stage allows an opportunity to see how other teams have approached the task and design tweaks can be made. They could then make changes and retest. Once all teams had created a successful raft the children were then given time too use any additional materials either to add to their original build or to experiment with other designs.
Principle 3 – Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners
Article 28 – We all have the right to a good quality education.
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- The bundle method can be successful but due to the cylindrical shape the raft tends to want to roll.
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- One team rectified this problem by simply adding another stick perpendicular to the bundle.
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- Just like an outrigger on a catamaran this gives the craft stability.
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- Trying more complex lashing can avoid rolling issues but is harder to achieve.
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- Lashings create a robust raft in the more traditional design.
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- Again adding outriggers lifted the craft from the water and created stability.
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- Choosing very dry wood increased buoyancy..
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- A nest helps secure the passenger.
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- Adding a sail.
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- This one sank like a stone, we can’t always get it right.
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- The egg is safely held inside.
