| HOME | FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS | BLUEPRINTS FOR PBL | FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | SOFTWARE FOR STEM BASED PBL |
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
| What is STEM? |
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| S.T.E.M. is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engingeering, and Mathematics. The term STEM is used to express the important educational goal of integrating all curriculum behind the skills that are thought to be the most vital to the success of students in the 21st Century. STEM education is evolving into an integrative curriculum aimed at preparing students for the challenges of the 21st Century. A research-based STEM education program prepares our students to become creative and innovative problem solvers, researchers, engineers, and designers. |
| Why is STEM important for our students? |
| Every job within the 21st Century is likely to require some amount of skill in science, technology, engineering, and math. The integration of engineering and technology within the mathematics and science curriculum will make instruction more meaningful and engaging as well as provide students with the skills that are cirtical to success in the 21st Century. This includes the ability to think critically, solve complex problems and drive advancements in science and technology. STEM is not just about science and math; it's about being ready for college, careers and life. With this in mind, students must also be able to interact, communicate and think creatively. We need to ensure we are using all of our current resources efficiently in developing a sustainable STEM program that will set WUSD apart. |
| How can STEM be integrated into all content areas? |
| The four parts of STEM have been taught independently of one another for years. By adopting the STEM philosophy, the instruction of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics will no longer be taught in isolation, but will each play an integral part in the curriculum as a whole. Project Lead the Way and Discovery Education are two available and high quality curricular resources that would serve as the anchor for our STEM curriculum. The resources promote project and problem based learning rather than rote learning of facts and figures. The science, engineering and mathematics fields are made complete by the technology component that provides a creative and innovative way to problem solve and apply what has been learned. Application is the key as students must demonstrate what they know and understand. |
| Where do other subjects fit in? |
| Just because the "s" in STEM does not stand for "social studies" does not mean that social studies does not have a place. Economic, geographic and civic knowledge are crucial components to good citizenship and deserve an equal place in terms of emphasis in curriculum, as early as pre-k and kindergarten. The "doing" of social studies is the most important part. Students need to be able to analyze information and establish arguments supported by evidence across all the domains of social studies. STEM concepts are also prevalent in various forms of performing and fine arts, PE and business. Reading and writing remain the focal points of a solid foundation to any education. |
| Additional Information |
There will still be Art, Music, and PE with a daily schedule very similar to the current year. The daily arrival and departure times for students will not change. Project Lead the Way curriculum for elementary grades will serve as the anchor curriculum for Lincoln Elementary STEM. We will still use our Everyday Math and a variety of literacy resources to teach Reading, Writing and Communication. To see an overview of Project Lead the Way - click here. |
| Supplies Needed |
We need your extra stuff! If you have any of the listed items available, please save them for us. We wish to create a makerspace in our school so that students can do some creative problem-solving with various every day or unwanted items that you might wish to donate. Colored Construction Paper |
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