For the first time, BBMS science teachers Steve Giglio and Cathy Schaefer are offering two Summer Enrichment Programs for students entering grades 5 through 8 for the 2014-2015 school year. The enrichment programs go beyond the robotics and STEM education available during the school year, as the unique structure of a summer schedule will allow for greater integration and in-depth exploration through project-based learning.
Participants will use high-quality desktop computers with large 22" high definition monitors along with LEGO NXT robotic kits, high quality, solar boat, solar car, sailboat kits, battery powered vehicles & greenhouse hands-on project kits. A strong emphasis is placed on learning the fundamentals of math, science, technology and engineering principles as well as close personal attention to each student.
Program Structure:
Each program will enroll a maximum of 24 students and be co-taught by 2 teachers. Students will work in groups of 2-4 participants based on grade and subject-matter knowledge, so each participant will be fully-engaged in the project. Both sessions will conclude with an opportunity for students to showcase their creations and innovative solutions to Robotics challenges and the Science of Alternative Energy. Showcases will be open to family and friends.
PROGRAM #1: LEGO NXT Robotics Obstacle Course
Date & Time: Monday-Wednesday, August 25, 26, and 27; 9am - 12 noon each day
Description: Participants will experience the real feeling of becoming a Robotic Engineer when working on the ROBOT OBSTACLE CHAMPIONSHIP GAMEâthe Super Bowl of robotic challenges. Students will:
- construct & program their robots to navigate and attempt to solve a variety of challenges along the obstacle course's variety of paths
- apply math & science skills to produce solutions that will allow them to continue
- produce and document their own unique solution(s) to conquer the obstacle course
PROGRAM #2: Alternative Energy and Green Model City Design
Date & Time: Monday-Wednesday, August 25, 26, and 27; 1â 4pm each day
Description: While working on the Green Energy Town Design Science Project, students will become scientists-in-training as they learn how to design a GREEN CITY. Participants will:
- design solutions to "GREEN A MODEL CITY" using LEGO NXT
- explore themes of energy conservation focus on recycling, energy conservation, automobile green technology, solar energy, energy production from wind turbines, water & waste management, forest & land management, traffic & mass transit planning.
Student Showcase for both programs:Thursday, August 28: 1 pm â 2
Logistics
The programs will be held in Rooms M101 and M101A of the Blind Brook Middle School located at 840 King Street in Rye Brook, New York.
Eligibility
Any student entering 5th to 8th grade for the 2014 - 2015 school year may apply for the program. To the extent possible, students will be grouped according to similar age and interests. No previous experience in Robotics Programming or Alternative Energy is necessary.
Click here to register!
