STEM: Innovator's Hub

Minecraft for Sustainability

Our Year 7 Murdoch students have been exploring sustainable design through Minecraft, creating virtual solutions to real-world challenges. One standout project comes from Emily, whose build focuses on making clean water accessible to the public. Her design features a beautifully landscaped pond filled with filtered water, alongside a renewable energy system powered by solar panels and wind turbines. 

Another project from same class, where Brianna S. and Grace K. have taken sustainability to the next level in their Minecraft project, designing a multifunctional community building packed with eco-friendly features. Their build includes a rooftop bee garden to support pollinators, an underground bunker, water collection systems, and comprehensive waste management. The facility houses a wide range of services – from a café, hairdresser, clothing designer, and mechanic, to a vet, teacher’s space, and even a law office – ensuring it meets diverse community needs. This creative design and thoughtful planning and sustainability can go hand in hand in shaping the cities of the future.

Emily's, Brianna's and Grace's creativity reflects her thoughtful consideration of environmental sustainability and community needs.

3D Design And Printing Functional Objects

Our Year 8 Murdoch students have been developing their skills in designing functional objects using Tinkercad and 3D printing technology. From coasters and name tags to phone stands and device holders, every design has been created from scratch, showcasing both creativity and practical thinking. Next week, these ideas will come to life as students take the exciting step of operating the 3D printers themselves, applying the skills they’ve mastered in the design phase. 

Among the creative designs in Year 8 Murdoch, Sophie S. impressed with her independently designed phone stand. From concept sketch to final 3D model in Tinkercad, Sophie demonstrated problem-solving skills and attention to detail, ensuring her stand was both sturdy and stylish. And next week, she’ll bring her design to life on the 3D printer she’ll operate herself.

Looking ahead, this class will embark on a new challenge – designing and printing a customised medical cast, combining engineering, health science, and problem-solving.