STEAM Cycle 13

11/16/2016

Kindergarten-Build a Beanstalk

After listening to Jack and the Beanstalk, the students retold key parts of the story. As an introduction to the design process, the students used pipe cleaners to create the tallest model of a beanstalk possible. After comparing the heights of the beanstalk models, the students tested the strength of the stalk by adding a golden egg to the top. The students reviewed the terms: structure and function. They were introduced to the Design Process and evaluation.

1st Grade-Structure & Function: Exploring Design

The students learned about the terms structure and function. They identified the difference between structure and function while observing objects around the classroom. They began the design process by sketching the structure of objects based on the function.

2nd Grade-Pixel Pictures

The students learned that pixels are minute area of illumination on a display screen and that when they are placed strategically, they create the images we see. After creating our own pixel pictures, we uploaded a snapshot to a Google Doc.

3rd Grade-Speedometry 1

Students will begin to explore how to increase the potential and kinetic energy of their Hot Wheels cars by building ramps. In this introductory lesson, students will have a long track and limited constraints to see how far they can make the cars travel.

4th Grade-Move It! Move It!

The students learned the term “Algorithm” and built a foundation for future coding lessons. This lesson helped students realize that in order to give clear instructions, they need a common language. Students practiced controlling one another using a simple combination of hand gestures. Once they understood the language, they began to "program" one another by giving multiple instructions in advance.

5th Grade-Create a Creeper

Students constructed a Minecraft Creeper using paper, scissors, and tape in the shortest amount of time. Creepers were judged for their accuracy after everyone completed the challenge.