S.T.E.A.M. Class Choices

September 2019- First Trimester 

 Lego Zoo  (Grades 1-3)

Students will explore the world of zoology in a fun and exciting new Lego challenge class.  After learning about zoo animals, habitats and adaptations, students will create their own animal with a unique adaptation to survive a new habitat using Legos and other materials. 

Applied Storytelling (Grades1-4)

Through storytelling of fairytales and folklore, students will learn how to solve real-world problems by using the engineering design process.  Listening to stories passed down through generations, students will discover problems that were faced by fictional characters, then present ideas on ways to solve their problem, as engineers, by creating realistic models.

BMX STEAM  (Grades 1-4)

This project-based class is student-centered, student-led with instructors helping to facilitate the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) learning.  With equal parts education, athletics, and exercise, students will explore bike assembly, laws of motion, and the skills required for BMX competition.  

 Gardening  (Grades 1-6)

Students will begin with a focus on the fall harvest and preparing our outside garden for winter.  Students will then cooperate and collaborate to assemble an indoor garden for the classroom. Gardeners will use scientific observation to discover the impact of soil, water, grow lights, and nutrition on their seedlings.

Music to My Ears  (Grades 2-5 )

This class introduces students to the field of acoustical engineering as they design and improve acoustic devices.  After experimenting with shapes and materials that reflect and absorb sound, students use a decimeter to measure changes in volume.  Students use what they learned about sound and vibrations to help design acoustic devices that amplify music. 

Engineering Everywhere  (Grades 3-6)

Students will tackle real-world engineering problems using the engineering design process, creativity, and collaboration.  For example one challenge will have students engineer a solution to a timekeeping challenge by constructing a timepiece such as a clock tower, hourglasses or a water timer. 

Claymation Camp  (Grades 3-6) 

Stop-motion animation engages students in creative exploration and spatial mathematical awareness.  Students build technological literacy as they learn to use the camera and animation software, and further develop communication and collaboration skills as they work together to produce a short claymation films.

 Design For Change  (Grade 3-6 ) 

Every one can make a difference!  Be part of an exciting new program at Southside called “Design for Change”.  Together we will investigate social and environmental issues, brainstorm, develop action plans and implement  ideas. Students will choose the issue, bring awareness and inspire others to act while participating. Our stories will be shared across America.

 Papermaking  (Grades 4-5)

Students will explore the history of papermaking and paper’s impact on our culture today.  Using a simple machine students will handcraft sheets of paper using a variety of recycled and natural materials.  They will evaluate the quality of their paper from these different materials. Students will also create ink from berries and use a quill pen. 

  Chess (Grades 4-6) 

In STEAM Chess students learn the basics of how to play chess, practice their chess skills, and try out new strategies to advance their play.  Students will also compete against each other and have the opportunity to design their own chess board game!  

FabSLAM (applicants only)  Students who are participating on Southside’s FabSLAM team will use the engineering design 

Process and digital fabrication to create a product to improve the lives of people who are visually impaired.  FABslam teams will then create a presentation for the regional FabSLAM competition.