Manhattan Beach Middle School

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Electives » STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)

This class takes students through the engineering design process which guides them through the creation and implementation of their projects and prototypes. The core of this class is for students to learn how to take failure and turn it into motivation to push themselves beyond where they thought they could go.  We will focus on growth mindset and developing grit throughout the year.
 
6th Grade: Offered in the Elective Exploratory Wheel (Trimester Long)
 
8th Grade: This is a year-long elective in which students will focus on the following:  
 
  • The introduction and use of force diagrams
  • solving physics equations and finding variables will be used in our Force and Motion Unit
  •  and classic projects such as
    • the Egg Drop
    • Mousetrap Car
    • Bottle Rockets to study forces, motion, and Newton’s laws.
 
We will also engage in other technology such as coding with Sphero Bolt, an introduction to computer animated design through Tinkercad and 3D printing.  Many challenges will require the process of iteration and students will work collaboratively in groups.
 
Group work is a huge part of our STEM class and group tasks require these seven essential skills:
  • communication
  • time management
  • problem-solving
  • listening
  • critical thinking
  • collaboration
  • and leadership
 
If you work well with others, can develop the essential seven skills listed above, and have a high interest in science, technology, engineering, and math, this class is a great fit for you!