First S.T.E.A.M. Lesson at Glen Head School Combines Computer Science & Programming

In September 2021, Glen Head School first and second graders became Scientists, Engineers, and Computer Programmers during their first STEAM session of the year. Elementary S.T.E.A.M. teacher, Mr. Ryan Bridgwood said, “Tasked with studying a rare, glowing snail, my students had to brainstorm potential ways to learn more about the exotic animal without removing it from its habitat.”

He continued, “Discovering that some scientists construct models to further study animals and share their findings with others, we shifted our thinking to that of an engineer. Diving right into their challenge, our engineers employed the engineering design process to construct a representative model of the snail using an introductory LEGO Robotics kit. Then to develop their models further and mimic this particular snail's ability to glow, students began to explore the basics of programming.”

The first and second graders were fully engaged as they simultaneously learned the basics of computer science and programming while getting to apply their learning immediately to a fun and relevant experience. Parents and guardians when you get the opportunity, please ask your children about their first S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) lesson involving a LEGO robotic snail at Glen Head School!

Article written with assistance from Mr. Ryan Bridgwood, Elementary STEAM Teacher Photos by Shelly Newman