Welcome to STEM!

Hi there! I’m Ms. O (Ms. Daniela Ottaiano) and I’m excited to be your STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) teacher this year at Winthrop Middle School! STEM is all about exploring how the world works, asking big questions, and using creativity and critical thinking to solve real-world problems.

In this class, students will dive into hands-on projects and challenges designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in science and math. STEM is a place to explore, experiment, and engineer solutions.

SCOPE AND SEQUENCE

6th Grade Coding (Unplugged → Digital)

Algorithms in Action – Everyday step-by-step instructions

Debugging Detective – Find and fix errors in “broken” algorithms

Binary & Code Cracking – Unplugged games with 0s and 1s

If/Then Adventures – Conditional instructions with role-play

Loops in Life – Repetition in daily routines & coding

Create Your Own Algorithm – Group “real world” algorithm design

Scratch Projects – Sequencing, sprite movement, add loops, conditionals, creativity

Lego Spike Prime: Building and Coding Lego Machines

Sphero Coding Robots

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7th & 8th Grade STEM (Unplugged Engineering Design)

Barbie Bungee – Variables, predictions, collecting data

Paper Roller Coasters – Forces, energy transfer, design iteration

Egg Drop Challenge – Engineering design, safety systems, testing

Popsicle Stick Bridges – Strength, tension/compression, teamwork

Marble Maze – Problem-solving, iteration, precision

Catapults – Simple machines, angles, distance measurement

Parachutes – Air resistance, drag, surface area

STEM is also a great way to strengthen skills from your math and science classes in a fun, applied way. Learn how to use problem-solving, design, testing, data collection and analysis with a hands-on, real-world application. 

Whether you’re already STEM-savvy or just starting to explore, there’s something here for everyone.