Think Tank!

Kindies are learning about collaboration and compromise through their center time. They are also building on their coding skills by writing basic codes and playing with "Squirrel Coding" (a fun coding activity). Their coding skills are already starting to develop!!

First graders are also learning about collaboration and compromise through their center time. In addition, they have been building on their understanding of the Engineering Design Process while also learning how to program the Dash Bots using a fun app on the iPads!

Second graders have just finished learning about the parts of plants and what they need to grow along with the pollination process. They extended their learning through the study of biomimicry (ex.-the invention of velcro was inspired by the observation of burrs stuck in a dog's fur), and hydroponics (growing plants in water instead of soil). We'll be watching herbs grow this month in our new hydroponic growing systems (thank you, PTO!!) and will also review proper use of Dash Bots while practicing CONTROL when moving their Bots!

Third graders have been learning about simple and compound machines and student groups have made an inclined plane, lever, and pulley with the VEX GO Kits. They are now being challenged to design a compound machine with VEX Robot Kits that can save a tiger from a moat (a model, of course-lol). If we have time this month, we'll also investigate how snowflakes form and discover that while no two snowflakes are identical, they do have certain features in common!

Fourth graders will be using the VEX Robot Kits to make a Sling Bot in small groups. Collaboration and compromise will be exercised as they work in their groups to ultimately take on a fun challenge where they use their Sling Bot to plow snow (cotton balls). The Bot that can clear the most "snow" in the designated time frame will be deemed the "champion!"

Fifth graders will be learning about prosthetics and then using the Engineering Design Process to make a prosthetic hand using common materials (card stock paper, string, straws, etc). They'll also have some fun challenges and relays to try using their prosthetic hand! We'll end the week learning what a career as a biomedical engineer would be like!

If Sixth Graders are in the Think Tank Elective this month, they'll be designing and creating their dream treehouse using cardboard and other common materials. The focus is on Cardboard Engineering and using different methods to attach and connect pieces of cardboard together while following a student-made blueprint.

Many have asked if there's anything the Think Tank room could use. The following is a list of items I'm currently looking for!

• TP and paper towel tubes (empty-no TP or paper toweling on them)
• Colorful duct tape
• Scotch brand masking tape
• Crayola markers

Thank you so much to those who have donated items! I really appreciate it!