VIDBE-Q Volume 65 Issue 2
24
Image 2. Diagram of how an actual pumpkin seed proceeds from seed, to a seed
with roots (made of wax sticks), to a seed with wax stick roots and (felt) sprouts,
and finally to a seed with wax stick roots, felt sprouts and (tissue paper) leaves.
The key to introducing more detailed concepts in a tactile format in early
childhood settings is that the representations must be easily understood and not
overlaid with too many textures (Cleveland & Sewell, 2009). It is important to
keep the design simple, then the concept can be more advanced without becoming
confusing to our students. In addition, the concepts must be taught over several
sessions focusing on one section at a time, such as the sprouts and leaves, and then
focusing on the representation as a whole.
I used simple materials found in almost every classroom setting to create a
very detailed model. In my experience, the most important feedback will come
