By: Amelia Manes and Alayna Kramer, Kindergarten North Teachers
During the month of February, kindergartners embarked on their first-ever Engineering Unit. They learned that an engineer is “a person who uses tools to solve problems and make life easier.” Students learned that there are many different types of engineers and honed in on civil, mechanical, software, and electrical engineering.
Building upon their previous Changemaker unit which emphasized creativity and collaboration, hands-on experiences encouraged students to design and construct structures such as buildings, bridges, and robots. Using materials like wooden blocks, Magna-Tiles, straws, and Kapla planks, they experimented, worked through challenges, and brought their creations to life.
To enrich their learning through an interdisciplinary approach, we integrated engineering concepts across subjects. For example, in Literacy we used read-alouds, drawing, and writing activities to help deepen students’ understanding. In math, students explored 3D shapes and their real-world applications and as an art activity, kids drew their own large scale sketches of their “dream building.”
Field trips further enhanced the experience, offering real world exposure to engineering marvels. Visits included Crane Cove, Salesforce Tower, and the 3rd and 4th Street bridges. Additionally, a special trip to the ChangeMaker Lab, led by Live Oak Support Engineer Kai, introduced them to coding and robotics.
Engineering knowledge is a great way for students to understand the world around them. Our kindies have been so engaged in this unit and utilized a variety of skills. This early exposure sparks their creativity and will prepare them to be problem solvers and changemakers of the future!
Live Oak学校欢迎并接纳任何种族、肤色、民族和族裔、公民身份、性别认同、性别表达、性取向和信仰的学生参与Live Oak学校的所有权利、特权、项目和活动。在管理其教育政策和计划、招生政策、调整后的学费计划以及体育和其他学校管理的计划方面,Live Oak学校不存在基于种族、肤色、民族和族裔出身、公民身份、性别认同、性别表达、性取向和信仰的歧视。