STEAMing Ahead

We only realise the true potential of our students when we offer them learning experiences outside the norm. Today we saw the excellent capabilities our students have in STEAM!

LEGO Stop Motion

Marble Run

3D Printer Design

Sphero Maze

Magnifying Art

Science Technology Engineering Art and Maths is the focus this week for Tapping's inaugural STEAM Week. A great deal of planning and organising has gone into this event and the team have organised guest speakers and educators for the event. 

Today our Year 6s enjoyed LEGO Stop Motion movie making, Magnifying Art, Catapult Construction and 3D Printing- yes 3D printing can you believe it?

The LEGO Stop Motion was so much fun, we were given only 10 pieces of LEGO to make a vehicle or furniture piece and then we had two mini figurines- now to make the story... many photos, effects and soundtracks later we shared our Academy Award winning movies! Both the lead teacher and the students commented on how the students pushed past problems and sifted through solutions until they made a movie they could truly be proud of.

Off to the Studio where we would be invited in as "Creators" and marvel at the world that exists under the microscope. We saw butterfly wings, pollen, bacteria, dust mites and a tick all highly magnified- it was not at all what we were expecting! Broccoli florets look like stunning unopened tulips and butterfly wings looked like tightly woven textiles, it was truly incredible. This formed our inspiration to create some nasty or nice aliens. We were offered the opportunity to sculpt our alien creature out of plasticine or just get straight to the drawing. Well, I'm telling you now I don't know how I'll sleep tonight... the creatures were nothing short of terrifying! A snarling, fang filled seagull who would rip off your fingers for your fish and chips or would you rather the riled-up reptilian with robotic pincers to prise you apart! Spielberg's next special effects guys are in the making I believe! 

Such an enjoyable day for everyone, thanks again to the STEAM Team and the guests from Joseph Banks SC. We hear from our very special guest speaker Professor Lyn Beazley tomorrow to give us insight into future career prospects in Science. Until the next big idea it's paper, scissors...