[Design and Technology] Skateboards

Fri Dec 16 09:16:36 EST 2011

Looks good Justin, you have the right focus - student engagement!

Tim Beare

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From: destech-bounces at edulists.com.au [destech-bounces at edulists.com.au] on behalf of Judy Moore [admin at datta.vic.edu.au]
Sent: Thursday, 15 December 2011 3:46 PM
To: D&T Edulist; Systems Edulist
Subject: [Design and Technology] Skateboards

My name is Justin and I have been teaching design technology for the past 10 years. Like most good teachers, I am constantly looking for new, interesting and more importantly engaging activities for the students to undertake in my classroom.
On a recent PD trip to Canada I came across a skateboard building program that has addressed each of the above criteria. I have begun to implement the Roarockit skateboard program at my school with fever pitched excitement. Other Schools are going to roll the program out next year with it's VCAL and woodwork cohort.
I think from my experience and observations, teachers and students have been crying out for a program that is re-engaging, makes real links with the curriculum, reduces behavioral issues and improves attendance. With no disrespect to what has been achieved before, if I were to ask a group of 15-17 yr. old disengaged boy and girls would you like to build a herb garden to create a market garden or design, build and market their own skateboard!  I know the answer.
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If you interested in knowing a little more about the Roarocket skateboard program and the links to VCAL you should visit the Roarocket  website and the Blogs in particular the http://oasisskateboardfactory.blogspot.com/.  I honestly believe this program has the potential to engage and re engage students. The youtube link below is also worthwhile having a look at.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MB848OCSXSg

Build Skateboard Decks in Class!

Skateboard Deck building can be used as a focus to include a wide range of subjects into your curriculum.

Help your students earn their mandatory and elective credits while building skateboard decks in class or just build decks for fun!

Easy to teach, easy to learn, a win-win for students and teachers.

Teachers now building skateboard decks in class report that:

  *   attendance levels are up
  *   students are focused, attentive and apply themselves to complete their decks
  *   At-Risk, Over/Under achievers easily grasp the learning concepts and excel
  *   teamwork and mentorship occur naturally during the build process
  *   students discover hand work skills they didn’t know they had
  *   the program provides great flexibility to include required learning
  *   students relate well to skateboards and its counter-culture aspects
  *   it is a great opportunity to involve their immediate and outside community
  *   it can be a self-supporting program for materials
  *   is a great fund-raising program

Students build a laminated maple veneer deck which they can be proud to display as an art project, or eventually use as transportation or exercise. Hardware does not need to be a part of this project, keeping costs and liability issues to a minimum.

Roarockit skateboard deck builds do not require the use of power tools and can be done in any classroom or even outdoors. No harmful glues, paints or coatings need to be used. You do not have to be a woodwork teacher! Maple Veneer is 100% Canadian, and Kit parts are 99% North American made!

Skateboard Deck Building works for:

At-Risk Youth - After School - Practical Arts - Incentive / Rewards - Environmental Projects - - Shop Class – Technical Construction – Math, Science and Physics - Art and Design - Youth Outreach - Mentorship - Summer Camp – Skate Park and Store related events - School and Community Fundraisers

VCAL

Business and Entrepreneurship

Create an ongoing program by building multiple decks with the reusable tools and Thin Air Press Kits. Create a company store, manage the funds, find sponsors, while providing a compelling reason to come to class!

The Oasis Skateboard Factory Model: each student builds 2 (or more) skateboard decks. One deck becomes their own , then they are required to use their creativity to market the other deck to a member of the outside community. The challenge is to offer their product for sale, then support that sale by completing the assignment to the customer’s satisfaction on delivery. Most of Oasis’ finished skateboard “products” are now fixtures at coffee houses and other shops both locally and beyond the school.

Points of Learning:

  *   designing a marketable skateboard deck “product”
  *   creating a business plan
  *   supply & cost of raw materials
  *   applying for grants, loans or donations
  *   managing funds, book keeping and balance sheets
  *   management of production schedules and delivery commitments
  *   sales and marketing of the skateboard decks
  *   promotional ideas and methods
  *   entrepreneurship in the skateboard industry
  *   contributing to society and the skateboard world
  *   creating and delivering a social message through skateboard deck building

We are excited to announce that the first school (that we know of) has developed a full 2-Semester credit program for grades 9, 10 and 11. ALL courses are taught with a Skateboard Theme including running an entrepreneurial business. Students work with local artists & business sponsors to design custom skateboards and get the opportunity to receive an honorarium. Students present community workshops and art displays.

Artist/Teacher Craig Morrison is well known for his Arts & Social Change Program at the Oasis Alternative School, and as well as his Stencil Art seminars and teachings. Craig has masterminded this new teaching venture, which you are welcome to view: http://oasisskateboardfactory.blogspot.com/

If you interested in knowing a little more about the Roarocket skateboard program and the links to VCAL you should visit the Roarocket  website and the Blogs in particular the http://oasisskateboardfactory.blogspot.com/.  I honestly believe this program has the potential to engage and re engage students. The youtube link below is also worthwhile having a look at.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MB848OCSXSg
If you would like more info give me a call on 0438455240  or send an email to signon8 at bigpond.com.au<mailto:signon8 at bigpond.com.au> and I will forward you the Australian price list etc.
Kind Regards,
Justin

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