STEM

Ross Definition of STEM Education

STEM education and learning focuses on the practical application of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Technology. STEM learning also bridges learning across all curriculums as a way to develop critic al thinking and problem solving skills. This learning must incorporate learning that is supported through art, humanities, and physical education. STEM learning nurtures and develops in each student a deeper understanding and practical application communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity so they can solve complex issues and excel in a global society.

Engineering Design Process

The engineering design process is a method by which teams of engineers or scientists work together to develop solutions to problems. As with scientific investigations it is important to first identify the problem that needs to be addressed. Within the engineering design process, it is also necessary to consider the design constraints that must be met and the overall desired outcome of the final product. A major step in the design process is the testing and modifications that a model or prototype must undergo until the final design is approved. Within the steps of the engineering design process is it often necessary to return to previous steps and readdress the problem from a different angle. Below you will find a diagram of the general steps followed within the design process as well as a brief description of each step.

Here are some of the great STEM things we will be working in the classrooms:

PreK 3-4

Trees

Clothes

Balls

Recycling

Buildings

First Grade

Flight

Astronomy

Animal survival

Second Grade

Plants

Extreme Weather

The Earth / Geology

Third Grade

Living World, Habitats

Washington, DC

Forces and Magnetism

Fourth Grade

Rocks / Minerals

Early American Inventions/Inventors

Heroic Figures

Revolution – Inventions

Fifth Grade

Solar System

Discovering and Developing Inventions

Westward Expansion and the innovations that helped pave the way

Civil War / Reconstruction – inventions that made life better