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Our 2nd Grade STEM program takes students on an exciting journey of exploration, building upon their existing STEM knowledge and introducing more complex concepts and projects. We encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving as students delve deeper into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
Here's a glimpse into the engaging topics we'll be exploring:
Digital Citizenship with Google Interland: We'll expand on digital citizenship concepts using Google Interland, an interactive game that teaches students about online safety, privacy, and responsible online behavior. (Explore Google Interland at https://beinternetawesome.withgoogle.com/en_us/interland.)
Sphero Robotics: Students will take their coding skills to the next level with Sphero robots, learning to program more complex movements, sensor interactions, and even create their own games and challenges. (Discover Sphero and its educational applications at Sphero.com.)
Computer Programming: We'll continue to develop coding skills, introducing more advanced programming concepts and exploring different coding languages. Students will learn to create their own programs and debug code. (Code.org https://code.org/ remains an excellent resource for continued coding education.)
STEM Centers: Our classroom STEM centers provide opportunities for hands-on exploration and experimentation with various STEM concepts. These centers are designed to foster curiosity and encourage independent learning.
Engineering: Students will tackle a variety of engineering challenges, applying the engineering design process to solve real-world problems. They'll learn about different types of engineering and the importance of design, testing, and iteration. (TeachEngineering https://www.teachengineering.org/ continues to be a great resource for age-appropriate engineering challenges.)
World of Goo: This physics-based puzzle game provides a fun and engaging way to explore concepts like gravity, tension, and structure. Students will use their problem-solving skills to build structures and solve puzzles.
Hot Wheels Physics: We'll conduct more in-depth investigations into the physics of motion using Hot Wheels cars, exploring concepts like energy, momentum, and friction through hands-on experiments.
LEGO Engineering: Students will use LEGO bricks to design and build a variety of structures and machines, learning about simple machines, mechanical principles, and the importance of precision in design.
Disney Coaster: This project combines engineering and creativity as students design and build their own roller coasters, incorporating physics principles and design elements to create thrilling rides.
Rigamajig: Students will use Rigamajig to create more complex and imaginative structures, further developing their engineering design skills and fostering collaboration. (Learn more about Rigamajig and its educational benefits at Rigamajig.com.)
Electrical Engineering: We'll delve deeper into electrical engineering concepts, learning about circuits, electricity, and magnetism through hands-on experiments and projects.
3D Printing with Tinkercad: Students will refine their 3D design skills in Tinkercad, creating more complex models and exploring advanced features of the software. (Explore Tinkercad and its educational applications at Tinkercad.com.)
Simple Planes: This flight simulator allows students to design and test their own airplanes, exploring principles of aerodynamics and flight. (Learn more about Simple Planes at https://www.simpleplanes.com/.)
Ozobot: These small, programmable robots introduce coding concepts in a fun and interactive way. Students will learn to program Ozobots using color-based codes and explore more advanced coding concepts. (Discover Ozobot and its educational applications at Ozobot.com.)
The Benefits of STEM in 2nd Grade:
STEM education in 2nd grade continues to provide numerous benefits, helping students:
Develop Advanced Problem-Solving Skills: Students learn to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and develop systematic approaches to finding solutions.
Enhance Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills: STEM activities encourage students to think critically, analyze information, and evaluate different solutions.
Foster Creativity and Innovation: STEM projects provide opportunities for students to express their creativity and develop innovative ideas.
Strengthen Collaboration and Communication Skills: Group projects require students to work together effectively, communicate their ideas clearly, and listen to the perspectives of others.
Build Confidence and Perseverance: By tackling challenging projects and overcoming obstacles, students develop confidence in their abilities and learn the importance of perseverance.
We are committed to providing a stimulating and enriching STEM experience for our 2nd-grade students, nurturing their curiosity, fostering their love of learning, and preparing them for future success in a world driven by innovation.