Montessori De Sagrada Familia Elementary Department held a two-day training session on August 2-3 in the Pre-elem conference room, where students from all the seven sections in the fourth-grade level—Luna, Triton, Cyllene, Oberon, Callisto, Ganymede, and Dione—immersed themselves in the intricate world of Silk Screen Printing Process, guided by expert Jeffrey Manalo from Print Mechanics.
The workshop beefed up preparations for the students’ integrated Performance Tasks in the subject MAPEH, AP, Filipino, and TLE, while also seeking to nurture creativity, resourcefulness, and hands-on learning among the young Sagradans.
Throughout the two-day session, the fourth graders eagerly absorbed the step-by-step process of printing on silk screens. To maintain the required darkness, and to avoid any undesired light exposure, a do-it-yourself box was ingeniously employed, complemented by the conference room’s lights being turned off, and witnessing this resourceful technique left the students’ eyes widened.
As the event continued, the students learned the proper timing required for each exposure. The fourth graders were cautioned to strictly avoid sunlight exposure, as it could harm the procedure.
An inquisitive mind from 4-Ganymede, Aaron Gonzales, marveled at this newfound knowledge.
”It’s incredible and overwhelming to witness how much precision is required in each step.”
Eventually, the workshop led to discussions about alternative methods for drying the prints. The students inquired about the possibility of using electric fans as an alternative to blowdryers/hairdryers, showcasing their problem-solving abilities and creativity.
Moreover, as the centerpiece of the event, Mr. Manalo provided meticulous demonstrations of applying paint onto the shirts, encouraging the students to gain experiential education with the spreaders and other essential tools. Eagerly, the students raised their hands, forming lines, restlessly waiting for their turns to put their newly acquired skills into practice.
Teacher Kiana Roberto, the homeroom adviser of 4-Oberon, praised the integration of practical learning and direct application of skills.
”The students are fully engaged and motivated because they get to experience every step of the way firsthand. It’s an invaluable opportunity for them to grasp Silk Screen Printing,” she expressed with enthusiasm.
In an interview after the occasion, Sir Jeff explained the significance of engagement outside mere textbooks in a comprehensive process such as the art of silk printing.
“Hindi hamak na mas ayos talaga kapag makikita at mararanasan nila na totoo palang nagagawa ito, sa halip na mababasa lang nila o mapapanood sa internet,” Sir Jeff responded.
Beyond the technical aspects, the event also fostered a sense of resourcefulness and innovation among the young Sagradans.
The 186 students of the grade level were split into two days, with Luna, Dione, Callisto, and Triton on the first one, followed by Oberon, Ganymede, and Cyllene on the latter day.
By: Reinlois Felipe