STEAM

What is STEAM?

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. The disciplines of STEAM are often applied together for problem-solving in the real world. Our program is designed to be interdisciplinary and uses NGSS Science and Engineering Practices (SEP) and Computer Science Teacher Association (CSTA) standards as a framework.  

Why is STEAM Education important?

STEAM education teaches critical thinking and problem solving and develops skills that can make learners more successful throughout their student and adult lives, including perseverance, adaptability, cooperation, organization, and responsibility. The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) explains that STEAM is not a single subject, nor should it replace other subjects, but it is a way of organizing and delivering instruction which helps learners apply their knowledge and skills, collaborate with their peers, and understand the relevance of what they are learning. STEAM takes an interdisciplinary approach to problem solving. STEAM education is also vital to the nation's economy as the United States strives to compete globally. 

What does STEAM look like at our school?

This year Manzano Mesa Elementary replaced its technology class with a STEAM program. All students in grades K-5 visit the STEAM lab once per week. For the first quarter of the year, older students are focusing on scientific literacy by learning how to design experiments, use scientific tools, and apply the scientific method. Younger learners are exploring the letters of STEAM with hands-on learning stations. A primary goal is to learn that scientists make observations, do experiments, look for patterns, and solve-problems. 

For the second quarter of the school year, all students will dive into technology with age-appropriate computer skills, robotics and coding. Older students will learn how to use compound microscopes, program Dash Robots, build and program LEGO WeDo robots, apply intermediate coding concepts (algorithms, loops, conditionals, and variables) with Code.org, program bee bots, explore creative apps, and work on typing skills. Younger students will learn essential computer skills; understanding hardware and software, practicing trackpad navigation, joining and navigating google classroom, introductory coding (sequence, algorithms), as well as programming bee bots through mazes. 

For the second semester of school, students in all grades will focus on the engineering design process with team or partner challenges at learning stations, then work on engineering projects connected to content for Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). 

Donations and volunteering!

Thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers that support science experiments in the classroom, sort LEGO WeDo robotics kits, and prepare other materials for the STEAM lab. Contact our Community School Coordinator for volunteer opportunities at our school.

Thank you to all of the families and community members that donate supplies and support projects through Donors Choose. Our new STEAM lab has had a huge boost thanks to all of you! 

STEAM Resources

Code.org (free coding activities)

My.aps.edu (student login and apps)