Students in Galax Middle School's After School Program are learning about Primitive Technology this month. At the beginning of the week, students discussed the meaning of primitive technology and experimented with different pottery techniques.

Later in the week, the students learned how to make square lashings, which are used for attaching two spars perpendicular to each other. This lashing is great for constructing bridges, ladders, etc.

At the end of the week, students had the opportunity to attend a session where they learned to make cordage from dried Dog Bane (Plectranthus ornatus). They practiced their square lashings and learned how to tie numerous other types. Finally, they tested out their lashing skills by constructing and testing the strength of a trestle and a primitive chair.