Hands-on experiments. Pizza. Prizes. A motivational speaker from NASA. Who knew science could be so fun?
This semester, the Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) Science Department launched a series of engaging camps for emergent bilingual students in fifth and eighth grades. The Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camps take place on three Saturday mornings and feature hands-on learning activities centered around the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).
“We hope students will experience curiosity and joy as they learn science content, apply mathematical principles and engage in problem-solving experiences,” said Rhoda Goldberg, director of science in SBISD. “They will feel a sense of accomplishment and develop a belief in themselves and their abilities when it comes to understanding science concepts.”
Introducing science and engineering practices
The camps’ lessons are led in English by science teachers from across the district. Supporting instruction in Spanish are student volunteers from Northbrook and Stratford high schools.
Working in small groups, the fifth- and eighth-grade students are guided by teachers and high school volunteers to ask questions, make observations, test ideas and think critically about what they are experiencing — key tenets of the scientific method.
The hands-on learning activities also help prepare students in both grades for the science STAAR test in April.
“These small-group, intentional learning experiences allow students to take risks, learn from mistakes and persist through challenges,” Goldberg said.
Collaboration, problem-solving, building friendships and meaningful use of technical vocabulary are additional confidence-building skills students develop through the camp experience.
Participating in the camps helps emergent bilingual students begin to see themselves as scientists and engineers now and in the future.
A visit from a role model
Special guest speaker Erick Castillon from NASA will speak to students during one of the Saturday STEM sessions this semester. Seeing his success in a STEM-related profession will help expand students’ imaginations and horizons.
“Watching students grow in curiosity, confidence and excitement for learning is truly amazing and one of the most rewarding parts of providing these opportunities,” Goldberg added.
Look out, world. Some new scientists from SBISD are rising to discover new technologies and solutions to complex problems and will likely have fun doing it thanks to the engaging experiences they had this semester at STEM camp.