White gold, black soil

Sujata C

Project-based learning has the power to kindle the natural curiosity in children. It promotes associational thinking that lays the foundation for new ideas.

The demands for innovation at work for adults are huge. Go beyond the ordinary, look beyond the obvious, challenge the conventions…these are the constant demands of any work field or academic discipline. The most important aspect of a project-based study is the linking of ideas that are not related. This unusual association is the bedrock of creativity and leads to original ideas. It is important to teach children this essential skill early enough. Regular project based study can help cultivate this habit of originality.

A project on Cotton can be very engaging. How much can a student learn about life by just being on a cotton farm? A project on cotton can not only help gain a wealth of knowledge, it can even help develop the fabric of the personality, as you will discover. Let us map out the plan, list the different disciplines that cotton touches and jot down the learning outcomes.

History: In ancient times, animal skins, furs, tree barks, and leaves were used by man to cover the body and provide a first line of shelter from cold and heat. Cotton is the oldest natural fibre used to protect the body, not counting animals skins.

The touch and feel of cotton is very different from synthetic fabric. It has the property of keeping the body comfortable. It is absorbent and soft and keeps the body cool in the summer and reasonably warm in winter.

The author is based in Hyderabad. She can be reached at sujata117@yahoo.co.uk.

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