STEAM Projects with Schools

September 2017 marked the beginning of a new inter-Hub project. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) aims to form cross curricular linkages between STEM subjects and the arts. We chose to focus on the natural world and recyclable materials for our pilot of the project.

Both 5th and 6th class from Thomond Primary school took part in the project from September to December for a total of 10 weeks. During the first 5 weeks, the children learned all about the Scientific Method and applied this to their study of plants and photosynthesis. Initially they examined plant structure and function and then moved down to a much more microscopic level to study the chemical reaction plants utilise for photosynthesis.

With the knowledge gained in the first 5 weeks, the groups moved on to the Art and Design section of the programme. After being taught some design techniques they worked in pairs to make conceptual molecular models of Water, Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen from recycled materials relating to the chemical they were modelling. 

In the final 2 weeks the groups designed and built a giant molecule of glucose which will be presented to their schools next term.

Below is a weekly breakdown of what this course covers. We are currently in the process of developing several more STEAM based programmes so keep an eye on our website and social media for more info!!

Week 1: Intro to Atoms and Molecules An introduction to the concept of atoms and molecules through plant microscopy and experiments involving the states of matter.

Week 2: Photosynthesis A deeper look at photosynthesis, how it works and the main chemicals involved.

Week 3: Plant Biology Following on from photosynthesis, this workshop looks at how plants respond to environmental stimuli (light, gravity) and how water travels through a flowering plant.

Week 4: Molecular structure Research In this workshop, participants use the internet to research the structure of water, oxygen and carbon dioxide. They will find out uses for each molecule and use this research as inspiration for materials when it comes to building their molecules. For example, they may use items they find at the beach to represent a water molecule.

Week 5/6: Building molecular models During these two weeks, participants will use their selected materials to build their assigned molecule.

Week 7/8: Materials Studies for final piece Participants get to know the structure of the Glucose molecule, research materials for their final piece and build prototypes of their final Glucose models

Week 9/10: Construction of final piece For the final two weeks participants work together to complete their final piece (a giant glucose molecule) which is presented to the school upon completion.

For more information on the project please contact Sean O' Brien, sean@learninghub.ie. (PLEASE NOTE this course is suitable for 5th and 6th class pupils only.)