Fourth Grades Design-Build Longhouse

 This fall the fourth grade has been studying the history of the Lenape, the indigenous people that inhabited the area known as Lenapahoking and later renamed as DE, PA, and NJ. After visiting Churchville Nature Center and having the opportunity to examine and sit inside the walls of a longhouse the students were asked to draw up designs and instructions on how to build one. The exercise of explaining how to build was challenging as they quickly realized the level of detail that was needed in explaining through their writing and drawings how to go about building a longhouse. 

On the first day of construction, the dimensions were determined and using tape measures, pegs, mallets and string they made the outline of the shape. The students learned the 3 x 4 x 5 method of creating square corners and much time was spent on measuring and precision. 

Once the shape was established the students worked in teams of two with designated tasks. They worked to pound and set the corners, measure and then cut the sticks. All the children spent time creating cordage, which is wet raffia twisted between forefinger and thumb to be used for the lashing. They used garden loppers, saber saws and scissors to cut their materials to length. The children were taught how to lash two to three pieces of wood together so the structure would be sturdy to stand up to nature’s storms. All of the activities helped to reinforce the children’s dexterity and familiarity with tools. 

We have roamed the campus collecting additional sticks when our supplies have run low. As the longhouse develops groups of students decide on features they would like to add and then set about building them. Currently a door is being built, as we do not have a deerskin, which was used traditionally.  Another group is working on a small bed. The enthusiasm and imagination that the students have brought to this project is infectious and their joy at seeing their ability to plan and build something has been empowering.