Third-graders at Mount Markham Elementary School worked on a STEAM project this quarter. The project incorporated components of language arts, science, technology, social studies, mathematics and art.
First, the students read a biography book and practiced taking notes. Then, they wrote a “mini book” about their famous person that included topics such as childhood and education, obstacles and accomplishments.
After initial research, students incorporated science and technology by making pressure switches with Mrs. Blackwell. The students each wrote and prepared a two-minute speech, Mrs. Blackwell recorded their speeches, and they used the Makey Makey kits to create pressure switches that viewers could push and listen to their speeches. Our students also made quizbox games that contained five questions about their person and used their knowledge of closed circuits to make the correct answers light up on their game.
Our students also designed a five-foot backdrop that hung behind them on the night of the Wax Museum. The culminating activity, the Wax Museum Night, was held on Tuesday night for parents. Students got to showcase all their hard work by dressing up as their character for all to see. After the museum, parents gathered outside in the garden for punch and cookies. It was a great night!
We are so grateful for the many people that helped our students with this project. Thank you to Mrs. Ainslie, Ms. King, Mrs. Entwistle, Mrs. Gadziala, Mrs. Loomis and Mrs. Blackwell. Additionally, several high school art students helped our students plan their backdrops, and Miss Kristen from the Connected Community Schools Hub helped with props and refreshments. It was a great activity, and we look forward to doing it again.
Check out some photos of our students and their projects in the slideshow below.