there should have been a basic discussion of fabric. I have a handout that briefly touches content, values, etc. I try to get them to not use 'fussy' fabrics for awhile. Then we usually do a churn dash block. This way they can match seams, play with triangles and color variations. I had a mother daughter team use the same fabric and made the opposite blocks - great example for the others in the class. I also give them a single page instruction sheet so they can make more blocks at home and then come to the next class to assemble the top.