ChompSaw
As changes are coming to how science is taught throughout Pennsylvania with the integration of new learning standards, hands-on opportunities will be at the forefront of instructional strategies. Planning, building, creating, and collaborating through hands-on opportunities will be key to the learning process. One common way to get students building is the utilization of cardboard for various projects, but the tedious methods of cutting often slowed down the entire process. The ChompSaw allows teachers and students to cut cardboard more efficiently to plan and build. The ChompSaw is a safe, kid-friendly table saw that allows students to cut a greater variety of shapes in a more detailed way.
Schwenksville Elementary’s Gifted Support Teacher, Kate Conaron, and Explorations Teacher, Walt Silver, plan to implement the ChompSaw to support student work. Silver shares, “The ChompSaw is a valuable tool for fostering creativity and independence among students. By operating similarly to a table saw, it allows students to gain hands-on experience with tools they may encounter in future careers or personal projects.” He continues, “The ChompSaw empowers students to take control of their own projects, encouraging both learning and self-expression.” The ChompSaw is a tool that not only benefits students in their current projects but also allows them to consider future endeavors.
PVSD Foundation had an awesome time visiting a third-grade classroom to introduce the ChompSaw—and let’s just say, it was a total hit! Right from the start, it was clear how easy and safe the tool was for students to use. After a quick demo cut by Silver, Conaron lit up and said, “This will save me so much time!” Before the ChompSaw, the two spent a ton of time prepping materials and helping students—often having to do the cutting themselves.
But not this time.
PVSD Foundation had an awesome time visiting a third-grade classroom to introduce the ChompSaw—and let’s just say, it was a total hit! Right from the start, it was clear how easy and safe the tool was for students to use. After a quick demo cut by Silver, Conaron lit up and said, “This will save me so much time!” Before the ChompSaw, the two spent a ton of time prepping materials and helping students—often having to do the cutting themselves.
But not this time.
Students jumped right in, excited to create. Some sketched out designs before carefully cutting them, while others dove straight into the action. Each student found their own groove—some preferred pushing the cardboard through, others liked pulling it. No matter their method, they were totally engaged.
The Foundation loved every minute of watching the creativity flow and seeing how quickly the students connected with the ChompSaw. We’re so excited to see what they’ll dream up next as they grow their skills and confidence!
To support this learning opportunity, PVSD Foundation provided funding to purchase two ChompSaws. It demonstrates the value that PVSD Foundation places on tools that support students with hands-on learning opportunities that promote a wealth of life-long learning skills.
PVSD Foundation is proud to support this project, as it builds up the learning community within Perkiomen Valley.
