At Bryn Celynnog, our core STEM subjects are Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths, ICT and Computer Science.
We believe that the study of STEM subjects is crucial to developing critical thinking skills and igniting a passion for innovation. The problem solving and exploratory nature of STEM subjects can fuel success across a variety of tasks and disciplines. STEM subjects are essential in many areas of life and career paths, and with the world around us constantly and rapidly changing, STEM subjects are more vital than ever.
We teach students STEM skills that they can use in the real world, in ways that can positively impact them and their loved ones. The ability to apply their knowledge to new and novel tasks will prepare them well for entering the workforce, and recent research suggests that science, research, engineering and technology jobs are set to grow at double the rate of other occupations.
During STEM activities, we provide a safe environment for students to learn in a way that allows them to fall and try again, stressing the value of failure as a learning exercise so that they learn to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. This allows students to build confidence and resilience.
STEM learning teaches our students about the power of technology and innovation so that when they encounter new technologies, they are not hesitant or fearful but confident and curious instead; this will be incredibly important for them to flourish in our increasingly tech-centred world.
In Year 7, STEM learning experiences include:
- Creating, observing and recording a range of chemical reactions.
- Investigating the role of waves in wearing sunglasses and listening to music.
- Creating electric circuits, classifying household substances and investigating how different factors affect mould growth on bread.
- Investigating why penguins ‘huddle’.
- Create a 3D product using a given technical engineered drawing.
- Design and make a structure that they will test and evaluate in order to measure success and identify improvements.
- Develop an understanding of Algorithms and create flow diagrams for different scenarios
- Convert decimal numbers into 4-bit and 8-bit binary numbers.
- Solve mathematical problems using decomposition
- Develop modelling skills by building a ‘Teacher Marksheet’ spreadsheet, using a selection of functions and formulas to analyse data, including V Lookup and IF functions.
- Developing a Pac Man game using block programming.
- Developing an AI robot 2D animation.