STEM Challenge

Challenge Accepted!

Students in Ms. Boyle's Grade 6 classroom really stepped up to the Fall STEM Challenge. The challenge?  Design and build a prototype machine ("The Extractinator") that could syphon micro plastics and material from water. The kicker?  Prototypes had to be built using only items from the recycling bin. The time frame?  One week to design, build, test and submit for feedback. Wow... The hard work these students put into their design and build is outstanding! Check out their pictures, the video and the feedback they got from STEM professionals.

But will it work?

Feedback from STEM Professionals:

Technology/STEM Essential Questions How are science and engineering skills used to solve design problems? How can we use the technology tools available to help us ideate solutions to a problem? How can we use the technology tools available to use to record our findings for further reflection?

2016 Massachusetts Digital Literacy and Computer Science (DLCS) Curriculum Framework:
6-8. CS.b; 6-8.DTC.b; 6-8.DTC.c; 6-8.CT.e

DIY Den In Action

Grade 3:  Making Science Models in the DIY Den

Students in Mrs. Holt's grade three class put their model building skills to work last week in the Spofford Pond DIY Den.

Students were challenged to build two models using items found in the DIY Den that each represented a type of motion.  Models demonstrated back and forth, zig zag, straight and circular motion.

Motion Models in Action:

Essential Questions:

Why are exploration and creation an important part of learning?

How can a makerspace change our learning experience?

Polar VorTechs

DIY Den Investigation Recently, the Polar VorTechs video crew caught up with students at lunch and recess to ask about Spofford's D.I.Y. Den (makerspace).  Specifically, they asked students what they thought could be done to soundproof the room and make it easier for groups to converse and work in the space. Some students submitted work plans:

Others agreed to discuss their ideas in a live interview:

Additional Pictures:

Technology Essential Questions:

How does this digital tool help improve collaboration and/or communication?

How can we use this software to create original, innovative works and ideas?

2016 Massachusetts Digital Literacy and Computer Science (DLCS) Curriculum Framework:
6-8.CAS.b.1; 6-8.CAS.c.4; 6-8.DTC.a.1 - 4; 6-8.DTC.b.1

Read Across America

In celebration of Read Across America students at Spofford Pond School read to students at the Cole School.  Over the course of four days, two students read Dr. Seuss stories such as Green Eggs and Ham and The Sneetches to all students at the Cole School.  Spofford students practiced with Mrs. Morton in the DIY Den and then used Google Hangouts to connect with the Cole School.  They read their chosen book to a live audience via video feed.

Enjoy these few pictures that capture the moment!

D.I.Y Den

Over the past few weeks, the Spofford Pond School makerspace, or as we like to call it, The D.I.Y. Den, has been very busy.  Students from all grade levels have been using the space to create class projects, grab resources or film in front of the green screen. Here are just a few pictures of our space in action. Check it out!

Ms.Cummings' Science Classes

Polar VorTechs Video Production

Ms. Cronin's Class

Grade 4 in the D.I.Y. Den

Recently, students in Ms. Davis' 4th grade book club groups finished reading four different books.  As a final project each group was challenged with constructing something that represents the story they read.  Students came down to the SPS D.I.Y Den and worked together to create some interesting projects:

(Sometimes it's great to go low tech!)

MakerSpace Coming Soon!

An exciting new change is happening at Spofford Pond School!  Throughout the fall we will be re-purposing our school's computer lab.  In the near future, the lab will not only house computers for teacher and student use, but it will also house a MakerSpace!  A MakerSpace is a place where teachers and their students can gather to create, invent, tinker, explore and discover using a variety of tools and materials.  Teachers will be able to reserve time in our MakerSpace via sign up to fit their classroom needs.

In order to make this happen, we need your help.  I am looking for donations of tools and materials (new or excellent used condition) to complete the space.  Please, follow this link to see a list of items needed. If you would like to donate, you may drop items off at school, labeled with my name or "MakerSpace".  If you have an item you think might be useful in our MakerSpace, but is not on the list, please email me (skosakowski@boxfordschools.org) a description before you drop it off.

With appreciation,