Since I was out sick last week and didn't want to pass it onto our students, you may be asking yourself "What's next in the world of STEM at Brown Elementary?" Well, besides the kids' ongoing projects, we have the LEGO Engineering Challenge coming up! Third and fourth graders will devise their own LEGO creations with a cool function, like the tiny computer screen you see on the right.Mr. Darko has engineered some creative LEGO functions already, so these kids will have plenty of inspiration. In the STEM lab, we have a scale made from LEGOs, a virtual percussion instrument made from LEGOs, and motors made from LEGOs (are you seeing a pattern here?).
I can't wait to see the creative, useful ways in which these kids can use LEGOs. This is a prime example of how STEM is not just memorizing facts and using the same methods over and over; science, technology, engineering, and math are dynamic processes that allow for tons of creativity! With experiences like these, our kids at Brown will have the opportunity to grow up to be excellent thinkers and problem solvers.
I will be sure to keep you updated on the LEGO Engineering Challenge, and I hope that my colorful poster (and the mass appeal of anything to do with LEGOs) will draw lots of participants!
-A. Judge
