STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)

Department
Middle School
Terms
2016-2017 First Semester (Fall)
2016-2017 Second Semester (Spring)


Assignment Calendar

Course Description

STEM is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in four specific disciplines — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — in an interdisciplinary and applied approach. Rather than teach the four disciplines as separate and discrete subjects, STEM integrates them into a cohesive learning paradigm based on real-world applications. 
 
Grading procedure: 
 
Students are evaluated on active and thoughtful participation in class discussions, regular and careful completion of assignments, scores on multiple choices attained to the rubrics, and effort and progress shown through the semester. Students will be critiqued on a daily and weekly basis. 
 
 
Attendance/Participation: 40%
 
In Class Assignments: 30%
 
Homework (Make-up): 10%
 
Final Project(s): 20%
 
Materials: Dictionary, Composition Journal, Binder, Brick lab, Pencils

 
Classroom expectations and consequences: 

     1. Arrive on time with all materials
 
     2. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself
 
     3. Follow directions
 
     4. Stay on-task during work times
 

Consequences: 
 
      1. Verbal warnings
 
      2. Student conferences 
 
      3. 5 minutes in chill out area
 
      4. Loss of privileges
 
      5. Discipline referral if it is necessary
 
      6. Reflection sheet
 

Units of Study:
 
1. Construction Engineering (2-3 weeks)
 
* Students will construct models of recognized structures such as a Greek temple and a pyramid. 
 
2. Communication (2 weeks)
 
* Activities require students to follow instructions, communicate with precision, and use technology to communicate with semaphore and braille systems. 
 
3. Mathematics (2 weeks)
 
* Students experiment with probability, create tables, and learn the parts of applying Pi.
 
4. Physics (2 weeks)
 
* These units provide opportunities for students to experiment with different types of motion and forces including Newton's laws of motion, the work formula, and the effects of friction.