Frequently Asked Questions
I would like to know how many projects we will be doing in STEAM.
We usually start the year with several smaller projects to get students used to the design/build model. These smaller projects last 2-3 weeks each.
How many students make it into the STEAM team?
We plan on 50 students in 8th grade and 50 in 7th grade.
Can STEAM students participate in sports?
Yes, STEAM students can participate in any Morgan Road Middle sport or club.
What accelerated classes are available?
As with non-STEAM classes, 8th grade students can take Algebra and 7th grade students can take Accelerated Math. All 8th grade STEAM students will take Biology, a Regents level course.
Can I take Studio in Art on the STEAM team?
Yes.
Can a student with an IEP or 504 be on STEAM?
Yes, our team has a special education teacher and a teaching assistant.
What does my schedule look like?
A student's schedule is the same as a non-STEAM student other than starting 40 minutes earlier and being dismissed 40 minutes earlier.
What are the projects like?
The projects all follow the same design/build model and involve all of the content areas: Science, Math, ELA, Social Studies, Art, Technology.
First, we present a question or problem to be solved.
Students then brainstorm their own ideas.
Students get together in small groups and share ideas.
Students agree on what combination of ideas they want to try first.
Students design and then build a prototype.
Students test out their design.
Students make improvements and test again.
*** Some of the longer projects require students to do research about the topic
Is there someone to help me if I get stuck?
There are always teachers around to help! WE LOVE TO HELP!
Can we take the 8 week elective courses on STEAM?
Sorry, no 8 week electives. Our projects are designed to incorporate many of the electives' content including robotics, materials processing, food tech, and media design.
Is it a lot harder than regular 7th grade?
NO, some days will look a lot like non-STEAM classes. We do have a flexible schedule so there are some days when we can focus entirely on our project.
Does this go all the way to high school or does it end?
Students have full control and choice of what happens after their middle school experience. Currently, this could include the Project Lead the Way pre-engineering pathway, many Career and Technology Education Programs and the traditional course selection and development process.