S.T.E.M.

Floating Boats in STEM

Click the image above to see the challenge

What is STEM?

STEM is an approach to learning and development that integrates the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. A STEM approach enables content and skills from curriculum areas to be used to investigate real world questions and issues through project based learning. In the process, learners develop STEM literacy and capabilities such as:

  • curiosity
  • problem solving
  • logical thinking
  • creativity
  • critical analysis
  • collaboration
  • independent thinking
  • initiative
  • communication
  • digital literacy.

Technology is continuously expanding into every aspect of our lives. Engineering is the basic designs of roads and bridges, but also tackles the challenges of changing global weather and environmentally-friendly changes to our home. Mathematics is in every occupation, every activity we do in our lives. By exposing students to STEM and giving them opportunities to explore STEM-related concepts, they will develop their ability to thrive in a digital future.

Term 1

During term 1, the senior school will be exploring robotics and mechanics through a series of construction kits designed to unlock the mystery behind sophisticated robots utilised in real industry and the world around us.

Over the coming weeks, students will work together in small groups to construct a robot/ machine.

They will explore:

  1. Articulated robotic arm (found in industry)
  2. Hexcalator ball machine (inspired by cutting edge medical devices)
  3. Forklift ball machine (specialised arm)
  4. Hook shot ball machine (launch and loop systems)
  5. Pick and drop ball machine (3 grabber hands with automatic release)

These machines will explore a wide variety of concepts such as; gears, axles, points of motion, kinetic energy, cranks, transmission, drive pulleys, driven pulleys, conveyor belts, power transfer and much much more. Students’ collaboration and problem solving skills will be put to the test as they work together to plan, interpret complex instructions and problem solve along the way.

We will culminate our unit with a variety of challenges enabling teams to compete and demonstrate their competence in operating their robots and we may even remove the hard work of hand cranking our machines and motorise some!

Mrs. Botterill (STEAM Leader) 🚂

S.T.E.M SESSION 1 (11/2/2019)

Our first session exploring robotics and mechanics through S.T.E.M. Students began to work in their groups and commenced constructing their VEX robot. There was rich discussion around the room with great questioning and trialling different methods. It was fantastic to see all students engaged with the hands-on learning task whilst demonstrating fantastic group work, problem solving and communication.

S.T.E.M SESSION 2 (18/2/2019)

Project 1.mov