Wallace A. Smith Elementary
Lab description
Grade Levels:
VW eLab Specialist
Shavon Diggs
Wallace A. Smith Elementary VW eLab is a hands on learning space for students in grades K - 5. Students are encouraged to collaborate, communicate, use creativity, critically think and be personally responsible for their learning. Students are introduced to laser cutters, 3 D printers, vinyl cutters, robots and more.
Impact
Wallace A. Smith Elementary's lab started out as a result of our PTA being committed to creating a STEM lab centered on innovation, technology and hands-on learning. They raised money until it was funded. The Public Education Forward allowed us to join the VW eLab network and begin to help further the the school's goal. Becoming a VW eLab has impacted the school in many ways. Students are always excited about coming to class. Students learn to use the Engineering Design Process. They are always wanting to know what's next. Student are now engaging in a STEM club after school where they dive deeper into laser cutting, 3D printing, coding and more. Students are so excited about things going on in the lab. They go home and beg parents for things like 3D pens, 3D printers, Laser Cutters, cardboard cutters. and even tape for their Christmas and birthday presents. The skills the students are acquiring during their time in the lab will definitely help them to be future ready with whatever career path they choose.
Project Highlights
Students in 3rd grade are designing and have to recommend an outdoor classroom that supports learning while protecting plants, animals, people, and the environment. They must use scientific observations, measurements, research, and test results to develop the recommendation. Students in 4th grade have to design, build, test, improve, and present a model roller coaster that teaches visitors about energy, motion, mathematics and engineering. This is an interactive project that will be displayed and tested by parents and other students during our school's STEAM night. Students in 5th grade are designing small learning spaces that are safe, stable, useful, scientifically accurate and responsible towards people and the surrounding environment. Students are developing a great sense of respect for the world around them. These are all group projects that require students to collaborate, communicate, critically think, be creative and personally responsible for their learning.
