The littleBits are an electronic proto-typing tool - where you can try out inventions. The Spheros are programmable balls that we can use to build programming challenges. Coming soon are teacher workshops to assist with including these STEM tools in the curriculum.
In January, the library received a littleBits kit and Spheros (robotic balls). The two learning tools are part of the MakerSpace. Students have already begun to explore these tools during the grade 5 in-school field trip and during 'Make Things Thursday.' Along with the 3D printer, students are having fun while teaching each other how to code, scale objects, program and invent.
The littleBits are an electronic proto-typing tool - where you can try out inventions. The Spheros are programmable balls that we can use to build programming challenges. Coming soon are teacher workshops to assist with including these STEM tools in the curriculum.
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OneSearch which allows for searching 30 databases and encyclopedias at one time - without leaving DESTINY. These great tools are supporting the students research project in social studies as they are only allowed to use DESTINY to answer student-created questions about Central America and the Caribbean.
By using the computer lab each week and scheduling time in the library on the laptops, the 6th graders have been able to expand their knowledge of "good research" by using new tools while investigating their projects. This month saw lots of activity in the upper library makerspace as we had a 'soft opening.' The Maker PLC meets in the space regularly and students have been wandering in. We have three groups doing their senior project focusing on the makerspace. One senior will post a 'weekly challenge' for students to take part in. The challenges will be of a low-tech and high-tech nature. This past week the challenge was a monster mash-up drawing activity. Another group is looking at 'how spaces influence learning,' they will be designing the space for functionality and flexibility. Currently, the space has a few old tables and a bookshelf. Lastly, one student is going to hold a 'how to build a computer workshop' as part of his senior project. The space is open Monday and Thursday after school and during the day during some lunches. Primarily, the space is for self-directed learning and inquiry according to student interest. When the door is installed, we will have a space for video-recording and green screen activities.
Grade 8 science students worked with Ms. Victoria to learn about infographics. In this introductory lesson, students learned how to 'read' an infographic and how to create a 'story' in an infographic format. The focus was on how infographics = data + narrative + design to make an effective visual tool for telling a 'story.' In this activity, students introduced themselves to Ms. Diane via the infographic format. Click here for an example.
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More!This page features what is happening in our libraries and Technology Center. Also, please look at the sub-pages with teacher and parent resources. Archives
May 2017
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