I have been teaching manual arts for over 10 years at various schools. My experience includes teaching woodworking, metalworking, and basic craftsmanship courses. I emphasize safety, creativity, and technical skills in my classes.

Safety is my top priority. I begin each course with a comprehensive safety unit that includes both theoretical and hands-on activities. I ensure that every student understands how to properly use tools and equipment, and I regularly review safety procedures.

I use a combination of criteria to assess student projects, including craftsmanship, creativity, adherence to project guidelines, and overall effort. I provide a detailed rubric for each project so that students understand how they will be evaluated.

I differentiate instruction by providing varying levels of project complexity and offering additional support to those who need it. Group projects and peer mentoring also help students learn from each other and improve their skills collectively.

I incorporate a variety of hands-on projects that allow students to express their creativity while learning practical skills. I also connect projects to real-world applications, invite guest speakers from the industry, and occasionally take field trips to relevant sites.

One successful project was building Adirondack chairs. Students were involved in the design, planning, and construction process from start to finish. They learned about measurement, cutting, assembly, and finishing techniques. The project was highly engaging and resulted in professional-quality chairs that students were proud to take home.