The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program is a meaningful cross-curricular platform, which guides student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking with real world applications. This program enhances our students’ ability both inside and outside of the classroom, to take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, and persevere in problem-solving.
Students will be guided in engaging with and exploring a variety of topics within the areas of physical science, life science, earth and space science, engineering and technology. A special focus will be to explore these disciplines in connection with environmental considerations.
Students are guided to become proficient in demonstrating a variety of Science and Engineering Practices, beginning with asking questions and defining problems, and using these to plan and carry out investigations.
An enriched focus of the Technology component is to introduce Coding Languages that will provide students with not only theoretical, but practical hands-on knowledge, preparing them for their transition into the secondary level of education and beyond. In the primary grades, students are introduced to Block Based Coding. Older elementary students use their prior knowledge of Block Based Coding in learning new languages, such as Python and Javascript. Students will also focus on five different streams through Computers and Science: Foundations (Digital Citizenship), Website Design, Photography and Graphic Design, Video and Animation, and Computer Programming. Using a highly collaborative and inquiry-based approach, students are expected to seek out solutions, and work together to solve problems, answer questions, and create technology.
Students work closely with their teachers to exercise logic, develop programs, solve tasks, debug and create using various platforms. The use of Coding has also played a meaningful role in connection with mathematics. Through the language of code, students demonstrate and apply their mathematical understanding in situations that arise in the real world. Core mathematical principles, such as critical thinking and problem solving, are used to create programs that dynamically model mathematics concepts and relationships. For example, students create programs that calculate tip and meal costs using their understanding of coding and the mathematical principles of proportional relationships.
Additionally, RHMS offers STEM Clubs to elementary students. It allows children to explore a variety of topics within the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Students will develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in these areas. Robotics will be featured in each STEM Club, and students will work in teams to solve various challenges. Using the skills they have honed in the club, students may be invited to represent RHMS at various local competitions.
Creating rich learning environments, through classroom and After School programs, where students can develop skills and collaborate are at the heart of the STEM program.