Crafts (Slöjd)

Crafts involves the thoughtful and expressive creation of objects by working with various materials and tools. It combines manual and intellectual work, fostering creativity, resourcefulness, and confidence in tackling practical challenges. This subject encourages students to explore traditional crafts and modern design, contributing to personal and societal growth, and promoting sustainable practices.

Aims

The curriculum aims to develop students' ability to design and create objects using diverse materials and craft techniques. It emphasizes the interplay of thought, sensory experience, and action throughout the creative process. Students learn to work with color, form, and function to express themselves aesthetically and culturally. The curriculum encourages exploration, experimentation, and creative problem-solving with different materials and techniques. Students are exposed to both historical craft objects and contemporary design for inspiration. They also learn subject-specific terminology related to work processes, materials, tools, and techniques. Reflection is integral to the learning process, enabling students to deepen their understanding by evaluating their work processes and outcomes. This fosters an awareness of quality in craftsmanship and results. The curriculum promotes sustainable practices by teaching students to choose and handle materials responsibly, developing environmental awareness. Safety and workplace considerations are also addressed.

Learning Objectives

By the end of Year 9, students should be able to:

• Design and produce objects using appropriate tools and techniques.
• Develop ideas, choose approaches, and justify their choices based on the project's purpose.
• Reflect on work processes and outcomes, considering quality, expression, and sustainability.

Core Content

Years 4-6

• Materials, Tools, and Techniques: Metal, textile, wood, and other materials; their properties, uses, and potential combinations. Tools, equipment, and machines: their names, safe and appropriate use. Basic craft techniques and related terminology. Sketches, patterns, and work instructions: comprehension and application.
• Work Processes: Stages of craftwork: idea development, considerations, production, and reflection. How these stages interact to form a cohesive whole. Investigating the properties and suitability of different materials for craft projects.
• Expression and Sustainability: Crafts and traditions from different cultures as inspiration. How color, form, and material contribute to the expression of craft objects. Origin, production, and environmental impact of craft materials (e.g., tin, cotton fabric, teak, leather). Resource management through material reuse.