Where can you find elementary school students transforming into young architects as they craft futuristic cities?
Thanks to Sandy Springs Education Force’s STEAM Legacy Grants, made possible by SSEF’s STEAM Showcase sponsors, look no further than the Lake Forest Lions STEM Club, where students have the chance to unleash their creativity and technological prowess by designing their own cities of the future.
Jasmin West, the teacher and club sponsor, emphasizes that the club is committed to cultivating innovation, creativity, and providing a competitive edge to scholars. According to West, “This year, our program focuses on hands-on learning experiences geared towards teaching students how to create, utilize and shape objects using cutting-edge technology like 3D printers and MacBooks. By integrating these tools into our curriculum, we aim to equip students with practical skills while nurturing their innovative thinking. Our program is designed to empower participants with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in an ever-evolving technological landscape.”
The enthusiasm is palpable among students, with comments like, “This is so cool!” and expressions of gratitude for opportunities to learn beyond the regular school day. Some are already expressing aspirations to work in the tech industry.
The “Future City Design” project, tailored for students in grades 3-5, seamlessly blends urban planning, architecture and 3D printing. Participants delve into research on existing cities, brainstorm solutions to urban challenges and bring their ideas to life through 3D models using user-friendly software. The culmination of their efforts lies in the 3D printing phase, where their city designs materialize, showcasing both functionality and creativity.
Mark your calendars for the upcoming STEAM Showcase on March 13th held at North Springs. High School, where students will proudly present their assembled models, offering tangible representations of their problem-solving skills and understanding of STEM concepts. This project not only fosters interdisciplinary learning but also aligns perfectly with the showcase’s overarching goals of promoting innovation and critical thinking. The ingenuity and creativity of these young architects will be on full display! Sandy Springs Education Force is thrilled to be able to put the proceeds from the STEAM Showcase toward this exciting after-school program.
Update:
Sandy Springs City Planner Helen Owens and Sandy Springs Economic Development Manager Caroline Kinchler (who is an SSEF Board Member) visited the Lake Forest ES STEAM Club to discuss their expertise with the budding city planners. Here are a few photos from the visit.
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