Science Technology Engineering and Maths
STEM
Foundation:
Over the past two weeks, Foundation students have been closely observing plants using magnifying glasses, microscopes, and watch glasses. They examined roots, stems, leaves and flowers, looking carefully for details such as texture, shape, and colour. Students recorded their observations through drawings, beginning to connect the plant structures they saw to their functions.
Year 1
In the last fortnight, Year 1 students have been learning about the needs of animals and the factors that can threaten them. They went on an animal hunt around the school grounds to observe local wildlife and look for signs of their habitats. Students discussed what each animal might need to survive and began to consider how people can help protect animals in their immediate environment.
Year 2
Over the past two weeks, Year 2 students have been exploring the pulls of magnets and how they
interact with different objects. They began to learn that magnetism is a type of force and observed how various materials responded to this pull. Through testing, they discovered which objects were magnetic and noticed how the strength of the force could change depending on distance and pole alignment.
Year 3
In the last fortnight, Year 3 students have been learning how to use TinkerCAD to design their own desk pets, which will be 3D printed later in the unit. They explored the basic tools of the software, experimented with shapes and sizes, and began combining design features to match their creative ideas. Students are developing spatial awareness and problem-solving skills as they work towards bringing their digital creations into the real world.
Year 4
Over the past two weeks, Year 4 students have been introduced to Miro, an online collaborative whiteboard tool that allows them to create, organise and share ideas visually. They have been exploring its features to become familiar with the software, which they will be using as their digital portfolio platform for the term. This work is helping students prepare for their upcoming Makey Makey unit, where they will document their designs, testing and reflections as they plan and build interactive projects using everyday objects as computer inputs.
Year 5:
In the last fortnight, Year 5 students have been using Miro to begin the Ideate stage of the design cycle. They have been brainstorming issues that affect the local community and then refining these ideas to focus on problems that could be addressed with a STEM mindset. Students have been encouraged to think critically about possible solutions, considering how science, technology, engineering and mathematics can work together to create innovative and practical outcomes.
Year 6
Over the past two weeks, Year 6 students have been developing their floor plans for the Minecraft Grand Designs project. They were introduced to the buying guide, which outlines the cost of every block they use, with all expenses deducted from their $450,000 budget. Students have been challenged to think strategically about their designs, balancing functionality, aesthetics, and cost as they prepare to bring their plans to life in Minecraft Education.
STEM Club
Both STEM Club groups have completed their 3D printed cars and have sent them off ahead of the qualifying round next week. Students have worked collaboratively to refine their designs, ensuring their cars meet competition specifications while optimising for speed and performance. Excitement is building as they await the results to see if their creations make it through to the next stage.
