Welcome to our latest edition of STEM Smaointe. This e-bulletin will support teachers and pupils in meaningfully engaging in Maths & Science activities in the outdoors. Research tells us that outdoor learning is beneficial for pupils in a number of ways; it helps children develop self- confidence and enhance both their physical and mental wellbeing. It nurtures creativity and problem-solving skills. It stimulates, inspires and motivates pupils in their learning. Learning outdoors allows children to recognise their independence alongside an interdependence and connectedness with the world around them. Outdoor learning can reinforce and enrich what happens inside our classrooms.
Throughout these activities we have highlighted the skill of Observation. Skills are the means through which pupils engage with and develop their understanding of mathematical and scientific concepts. By nurturing knowledge, skills, values and dispositions, pupils will grow as confident and competent learners.
This edition is divided into the following sections:
STEMTASTIC People: Éanna Ní Lamhna
Measuring Maths Outdoors
AutoMathic
Brilliant Birds
Magnificent Minibeasts
Assessment: Science Journals
We would love to see STEM Smaointe in action so please tag us in any work you share on Twitter. Our handle is @PDSTPrimarySTEM #stemsmaointe .
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