I work with at risk youth at a high school that provides educational services for students from a youth residential facility. Most of my students are below grade level in math and reading and have grown up under some pretty harsh circumstances.
Most of my students have had negative school experiences in the past, and we strive to provide them with a science classroom that is more hands-on and allows the students to take ownership in their learning.
These hands-on learning projects are great ways to foster both academic and vocational opportunities for these kids that they might not otherwise receive.
My Project
By constructing the Lego Technics Mercedes-Benz Arocs building kits, my students will be provided the opportunity to explore several different areas of science, technology, engineering, and math through a hands on and fun approach.
Because the Technic kits are so detailed, the students will learn the basics of internal combustion engine assembly, suspension dynamics, as well as pneumatics through the construction of the crane assembly.
This project will provide the students with hands on applications of content that we discuss and assess in class. Ultimately, these Lego Technic sets will be used in conjunction with the Lego Robotics kits that we have on hand in a collaborative effort to reinforce content we learn in class.
Our goal is to provide these at risk students, many of who are behind grade level in science, math, and reading, the opportunity to challenge themselves with problem solving experiences while exploring STEM in a way that is not overly intimidating.
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