Buying into the build: Captivating CTE students in Cordova

Students in Rich Sorenson’s welding class at Cordova High School usually get to work on some large projects, but for his class of all sophomore’s this year, reduced time in the classroom meant thinking a bit smaller.

Although its complexity was less involved than what some previous classes have built, the trailer to pull behind an ATV the class built worked to captivate the students. Students shaped and welded the aluminum basket, added support to the box, and constructed the axle system.

“This project was a new idea for the students,” Sorenson said. “I learned that it doesn’t really matter what project the students have if they buy into it. Once they buy into it, they loved working on it.”

The students asked Sorenson if they could come into class at times outside of regular hours to continue working on the project, including days used only for small group instruction and in-service days.

“When you have them asking to come in, it changes the game,” Sorenson said. “They are then diving the outcomes because they want more and more.”

Sorenson’s advice for other teachers who want to inspire students with a similar project is to merely start.

“Once started, assign students different tasks that need to be accomplished and they will figure it out (with a little help).”