Be Safe. Be Kind. Be Respectful. Be Responsible. Be AWESOME!
Our 1st Grade STEM program builds upon the foundational skills introduced in Kindergarten, fostering a deeper understanding of STEM concepts and encouraging students to become creative problem-solvers. We continue to emphasize hands-on learning, collaboration, and critical thinking, while introducing more complex and engaging projects.
Here's a glimpse into the exciting topics we'll be exploring:
Digital Citizenship: In an increasingly digital world, we'll introduce the basics of responsible online behavior. Students will learn about online safety, respecting others online, and the importance of digital footprints. (Common Sense Media https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ is a great resource for parents and educators on digital citizenship.)
Tinkercad 3D Printing: Students will expand their 3D design skills using Tinkercad, creating more complex models and learning about the design process from ideation to printing. This fosters spatial reasoning, problem-solving, and creativity. (Explore Tinkercad and its educational applications at Tinkercad.com.)
Computer Programming: We'll continue to build upon coding fundamentals, introducing block-based programming languages and exploring more complex coding concepts like loops and conditional statements. This develops computational thinking and problem-solving skills. (Code.org https://code.org/ offers excellent resources for learning to code.)
Rigamajig: Students will use Rigamajig to tackle more challenging construction projects, fostering creativity, collaboration, and engineering design skills as they build and test their creations. (Learn more about Rigamajig and its educational benefits at Rigamajig.com.)
MinecraftEdu: This educational version of Minecraft provides a rich environment for learning and problem-solving. Students will collaborate on projects, design structures, and explore various STEM concepts within the game. (Explore Minecraft Education at https://education.minecraft.net/.)
Electrical Engineering: We'll introduce the basics of electricity and circuits through hands-on activities. Students will learn about conductors, insulators, and how to build simple circuits.
Bridge Constructor: Building upon their previous experience, students will design and test more sophisticated bridges, considering factors like load, materials, and structural integrity.
Hot Wheels Physics: We'll continue to explore the physics of motion with Hot Wheels, conducting experiments with ramps, inclines, and different car weights to understand concepts like speed, acceleration, and friction.
Sphero Robotics: Students will expand their coding skills with Sphero robots, learning to program more complex movements and interactions. This develops computational thinking and problem-solving abilities. (Discover Sphero and its educational applications at Sphero.com.)
Kerbal Space Program: This space exploration game allows students to design, build, and launch rockets. It's a fun and engaging way to learn about physics, engineering, and the challenges of space travel. (Learn more about Kerbal Space Program at https://www.kerbalspaceprogram.com/.)
Engineering Challenges: We'll tackle a variety of engineering challenges, from designing earthquake-resistant buildings to creating simple machines. These challenges encourage students to apply their knowledge of science and math to solve real-world problems. (TeachEngineering https://www.teachengineering.org/ offers a wealth of engineering challenges suitable for different grade levels.)
The Benefits of STEM in 1st Grade:
The benefits of STEM education in 1st grade extend beyond just learning about science and technology. It helps children:
Develop a Growth Mindset: STEM encourages children to embrace challenges, view mistakes as learning opportunities, and persevere in the face of setbacks.
Enhance Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: STEM activities require children to analyze problems, develop solutions, and evaluate their results.
Foster Collaboration and Communication Skills: Many STEM projects involve teamwork, requiring children to communicate effectively and collaborate to achieve a shared goal.
Build Confidence and Resilience: By tackling challenges and overcoming obstacles, children develop confidence in their abilities and learn to persevere even when things get tough.
Prepare for Future Success: STEM skills are increasingly important in today's world, and early exposure to STEM can help prepare children for future careers in a variety of fields.
We are dedicated to providing a dynamic and enriching STEM program for our 1st-grade students, fostering their curiosity, igniting their passion for learning, and equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.