When I took a beginning quilting class, I knew NOTING about sewing, I didn't even own a sewing machine, I used one from the shop, I didn't even know how to thread a needle. The pattern the instructor used was an Ohio Star small quilt, four to six 12-inch blocks with sashing strips and borders. I appreciated the fact that the class taught us how to cut squares, HST, QST and strips for the sashing and borders. IMHO, if I am taking a beginner class, I want to acquire as many skills as possible. A six-block sampler would be a great option too, try to incorporate different aspects, but suggest a smaller quilt so that students are able to finish what they start.