Jump Starting Our Brains!

Some sixth graders jump started their brains this morning by working on a puzzle in the library before class started.

Density

In STREAM, our 4th graders experimented with density comparing multiple liquids and a paper clip. They constructed a hypothesis, experiment, collected data and discussed their conclusion with teammates.

Exploration

Second graders had fun exploring different centers in STREAM class this afternoon. They started designing and making hats for their hat collection,  just like Walter in Iris and Walter. They also played with solar crickets and talked about other things they’d find in the country (rural community). Next they planted pumpkin seeds. They’ll be learning more about the parts of a plant in Science. And finally, they worked together to construct a tree house for Iris, similar to the one where Iris met her new friend Walter.

Ned the Neuron

Kilauea update

My 3rd graders last year read Voyage to the Volcano. Just as we were finishing it, Kilauea erupted...and it hasn’t stopped.

We watched as it erupted and continued to erupt, but just in case you haven’t kept up with it over the summer, here’s a current article and some new vocabulary.

https://www.sciencenewsforstudents.org/article/kilaueas-volcanic-fireworks-show-no-signs-stopping?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=sns-newsletter

I love STREAM!

To say I am excited about teaching STREAM classes is an understatement. I have a passion for teaching and love all subject, even math, so STREAM is a perfect fit for me.

STREAM allows our students to demonstrate what they are learning and how it can be applied to every day life to create solutions. It also gives students an opportunity to learn about time-management, leadership, empathy, teamwork, critical thinking, and so much more.

I will be using project-based learning and the engineering process in much of what we do. Ninety-five percent of what we do in the Innovation Lab will be hands-on learning, and isn't that the best type of learning!

I'm looking forward a fabulous year filled with learning, exploration, and discovery! Be sure to check the blog weekly for updates on projects and challenges as well as pictures.

Ms. Ghio

So what does our STREAM program look like now?

First and foremost, STREAM is enrichment for all students. The curriculum will be based on each grade levels specific curriculum. From there, students will be challenged to demonstrate their understanding of what they've learned in their class, and in some cases, kick it up a notch! The direction of the work is in their hands, so it's limitless.

STREAM in the Classroom

Teachers will incorporate STREAM into their curriculum; however, students in grades 1^st through 4^th will attend weekly STREAM classes in the Innovation Lab.

STREAM will be a collaborative effort with our STREAM Instructor and Pre-K and Kindergarten classes as well as grades 5^th – 8^{th .}

 

STREAM Outside the Classroom

Our STREAM program also includes a speaker series, STEM career day, and field trips. There will be two STREAM Nights, one each semester, that will include a STREAM Showcase and hands-on learning, with involvement from community partners.

Our first STREAM Night is Thursday, Nov. 15th 

from 5:30pm - 7pm, so mark your calendars!! 

STREAM Resources

St. Ann Catholic School has many learning centers beyond the traditional classroom. There are two computer labs and two STREAM labs: an Innovation Lab and a Science Lab. We also have a Library Media Center with a video production room.

Our STREAM labs are equipped with the following:

3D printer

iPads

3Doodlers

Sphero SPRK+

Dash Robot

Squishy Circuits

Makey Makey

Microscopes

Table surface workspaces

Various building materials

Tools and hardware

Safety equipment

STREAM Reading Center