Science
Science is the “S” when looking at the STEAM teaching model. Science gets to incorporate real world practices to critical thinking based learning. For learners growing up in the 21st century, getting hands-on practice is crucial for applying what they learn to the world outside of the classroom. The science project that learners are going to get to work on is growing bean sprouts in the classroom, focusing on the science behind the need for soil, sunlight and water.
Science
Square Foot Garden:
Learners at all levels will get the opportunity to grow their own gardens in the classroom environments. 21st century knowledge skills and framework will include:
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Collaboration
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Communication
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Creativity
To complete this project, learner’s will need the following tools for their group of 3-4 peers:
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One fence board, 6-foot cedar or pressure treated
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20 nails, 1 1/4-inch length
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One dinner napkin or full-sized paper towel
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One glue stick
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One packet of leaf lettuce seed
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Gloves and safety glasses
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Hammer
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2 gallons of potting soil
This will get the learner’s ready to begin their gardens. While utilizing the science aspect of STEAM, they will go through the steps of learning about the growth cycle of plants, the pH levels required to maintain growth, and how sunlight, water, and soil levels can affect their plants. Students will keep a log each day of their plant growth while also learning the life cycle process. They will also get to collaborate with their peers to create their boxes and determine the best location for their plants and how to determine which plants are the healthiest.
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