A makerspace or "laboratoire de fabrication" is a collaborative hands on workspace within the library learning commons that fosters a growth mindset by promoting inquiry based learning and global competencies such as: critical thinking and problem solving; collaboration; and creativity, inquiry and entrepreneurship. A makerspace/fablab includes materials for crafting, engineering, design, robotics or media. Makerspaces/fablabs encourage students to create, innovate, and explore in their learning. The activities carried out in our makerspace/fablab will be inquiry and STEAM based (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) as well as connect to the curriculum and extend the learning going on in the classroom.
Please visit our LLC website regularly to see pictures of student work and creations in our LLC's makerspace/fablab. Please see below for examples of makerspace activities and their connections to the various areas of the curriculum for grades 1-6. Kindergarteners can also avail and enjoy the makerspace/fablab with age appropriate STEAM activities to compliment play based learning, inquiry and exploration. We will also carry out fun and engaging makerspace activities connected to the Forest of Reading ® program. (Please select the recreational reading tab to learn more about Forest of Reading ®).
Examples of Makerspace and STEAM curricular connections for grades 1-6
We can use robotics such as dashbots, ozobots, and mice readily available in our LLC. Free coding programs/websites such as Scratch or CSfirst can also support our Makerspace with ties to the curriculum.
All photos of Makerspace activities and ideas using kits, robots, programs, or simple crafts are courtesy of @MrsGeekChic
Here is a table of what the different makerspace/fablab categories (crafts, engineering, design, robotics and media) could look like in our LLC:
Hello wonderful Regal Road school community! Our growing makerspace/FabLab is and will be always looking for donations. A lot of the Makerspace supplies are consumable goods and I will often need to replenish our Makerspace. Here is a list of what I will always be needing in order to keep the Makerspace stocked. Many thanks in advance!
Lego, lego, and even more lego! :)
Lego baseplates for our future lego wall! :)
Pool noodles
Toothpicks
Popsicle sticks
Markers or colouring pencils
Glue sticks
Marbles
Wooden blocks or any building toys
Play-doh
Embroidery thread
Origami paper
Speed stacking cups/mat
Large red Solo cups
Yo-yos
Duct tape (any colour or pattern)
Rubix Cubes
Jenga Game
Eraser caps
If I can think of anything else, I'll add it here, thank you! :)