Scaffolded Curriculum Projects for STEM Educators
The Need for STEM Curriculum Progression
As schools and school systems grapple with the challenge of covering multiple age groups and grades with limited resources, designing STEM classes and curricula that meet the needs of all students can be challenging. Having only one STEM educator for multiple age groups can make this task even more daunting. At 1st Make Space, we recognize the importance of professional development and providing free curriculum resources to support educators in their efforts. Additionally, we understand the need for continuity in STEM concepts as students progress through their education. That's why we're excited to announce the launch of our scaffolded curriculum projects, designed to go alongside students as they advance in their learning. Our education team has worked tirelessly to create materials to help bridge the gap between grades and bring together STEM concepts from different subject areas. With these resources, we aim to make the learning process seamless and engaging for educators and students.
The Concept of Scaffolded STEM Curriculum Projects
In STEM education, a scaffolded curriculum progression is like a sturdy, reliable bridge that guides students toward success. Students build upon their existing knowledge and skills with each step as concepts become increasingly complex. This approach breaks down daunting STEM topics into manageable chunks, allowing students to engage actively with the material and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By scaffolding instruction, educators empower students to bridge any gaps in understanding, preparing them for success in higher education and beyond. It's no wonder that scaffolded teaching has become a cornerstone of modern STEM education - it indeed paves the way for student success.
Launch of our first scaffolded STEM curriculum projects that progress with students
Completed Cardboard Dog
We are introducing three exciting STEM projects that cater to different age groups and are designed to inspire creativity and innovation in K-12 students. Each project focuses on creating a cardboard pet, with increasing complexity as students progress through the grade levels. These educational activities align with various NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards), CSTA, Indiana Academic Standards, and Indiana Employability Skills. Signing up for the corresponding age group curricula can access these free projects.
Each project encourages students to explore the world of cardboard construction, learning through hands-on experience and applying their knowledge to design creative solutions. By participating in these activities, students will develop essential skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and presentation, all while having fun creating their unique cardboard pets. Take advantage of this opportunity to engage your students in these exciting STEM projects. Sign up for each age group's curriculum today!
Completed Cardboard Pet
Project 1: Cardboard Pet (K-5)
Students explore various assembly materials and techniques for cardboard construction.
Learn the advantages and disadvantages of using different materials
Design and build their cardboard pet
Share and explain their creations through collaboration and presentation
Project 2: Cardboard Dog (6-8)
Builds on the skills developed in the previous project
Students apply their knowledge of assembly materials to create a more complex structure
Focus on designing and constructing a cardboard dog
Engage in peer-to-peer learning by explaining their constructions and problem-solving methods
Project 3: Animated Cardboard Dog (9-12)
Sample code for block coding for tail wag.
An advanced project that incorporates elements of animation and movement
Students utilize their prior understanding of materials and assembly techniques to create an animated cardboard dog
Integrate STEM concepts, such as simple machines and mechanical design
Collaborate and present their final projects to peers, showcasing their creativity and problem-solving skills
There’s More to Come
We are thrilled to announce that we've barely scratched the surface of our curriculum progression initiative. The next set of scaffolded curricula in store is biomimicry, a design strategy that imitates the natural world to solve pressing human challenges. Biomimicry is not only a promising approach to design and innovation, but it also inspires hope in the face of global issues like climate change and resource depletion. Keep a watchful eye on our upcoming releases, and sign up for curriculum today to get the latest updated materials as soon as they come out. Let's explore this exciting avenue of learning together.
Conclusion
At 1st Make Space, we understand the importance of continuous innovation and support for STEM-certified educators and schools. The next generation of innovators, scientists, and engineers are in our classrooms today. We are committed to providing educators with the necessary resources and tools to inspire and educate future STEM professionals. Our team constantly explores new technologies and methods to help educators engage their students meaningfully and impactfully. Through collaboration and innovation, we can help shape the future of STEM education and inspire the next generation of innovators and makers.