If you had walked through the SCLS Primary School last week you would have seen some unusual things. You would have seen motorized cups doodling, students making paper using centuries-old methods, and other students testing the strength of houses made of straws.
From April 1st to April 3rd our school engaged in a three-day celebration of innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration through our annual STEAM event. Students of all grades came together to explore the realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics in various workshops and challenges.
The event kicked off with a buzz of anticipation as students immersed themselves in workshops tailored to their interests. From coding to robotics, art to physics experiments, there was something for every curious mind.
These workshops not only provided valuable hands-on experience but also fostered a spirit of inquiry and exploration among participants.
One of the main highlights of the event was the series of grade-level challenges that put students' engineering skills to the test.
In Grade 1, students had a blast designing intricate and eye-catching mazes for their robotic hexbugs to navigate through autonomously.
Grade 2 students designed every twist and turn of their marvelous marble runs out of a pile of recyclables brought to school by the students themselves.
In Grade 3, a car design challenge tasked students with planning and constructing miniature self-powered vehicles. The sight of students brainstorming, tinkering, and testing their creations was a testament to their problem-solving abilities and creativity.
Grade 4 students had the thrilling egg drop challenge, where they had to design protective casings for fragile eggs and drop them from varying heights. The suspense was palpable as students watched their contraptions descend, hoping that their designs would withstand the impact.
Grade 5 students continued the eco-friendly trend, showcasing their ingenuity and knowledge of science, to design and build captivating arcade games that not only entertained but also highlighted the importance of sustainability. From DIY pinball machines crafted from cardboard boxes to inventive skee-ball contraptions fashioned from plastic and cardboard, each game was a testament to the students’ resourcefulness and dedication to environmental responsibility.
Throughout the event, the students not only demonstrated their technical skills but also engaged in valuable learning experiences. Collaborating in teams, they honed their communication and teamworking abilities. The challenges gave them opportunities to problem-solve and to show their determination to try again when faced with failure.
The day ended with a showcase. Students left their homerooms to visit each other to learn about their friends’ challenges and the process they went through to solve them. As they presented their creations to their peers and visitors, they gained confidence in public speaking and learned the importance of effective communication in conveying their ideas. Ultimately, STEAM Day not only provided a platform for fun and entertainment, but also served as a rich educational opportunity, fostering a love for learning and innovation among the young minds in our primary school.
We look forward, with great anticipation, to our next STEAM event!
Writing：Martin Clinton
