T (07) 3394 9999 Absentee Line (07) 3394 9964 E email@loreto.qld.edu.au W www.loreto.qld.edu.au PO Box 1726 Coorparoo DC Qld 4151
Volume 24 - 12 August, 2014 Dear Parents and Students This week, our Year 8s are embarking on an exciting challenge over two days that represents the positive direction our College is taking in terms of cross curricular projects, learning and, most significantly, thinking. The Year 8 STEM Challenge has a focus on engaging our girls in an area (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) that has been historically seen as a male dominated domain. When I speak with tertiary representatives and industry stakeholders, it is evident that the sector is actively seeking females to pursue careers in the STEM field as they bring to the table an added dimension of perspective, creativity, ingenuity, and professional excellence that has previously been underrepresented. A common theme I hear is that the industry needs more women in roles at all organisation levels, but especially in leadership positions, to ensure a productive and secure future in Australia. This is a time that brings fantastic career opportunities for our young Loreto Women should they discover ability or find interest in the STEM area. Some key objectives of the Year 8 STEM Challenge happening this week are:
Promoting the strong links between Science, Mathematics, Design and Information Technology in the curriculum and further developing abilities in these areas within a common real-world context Fostering Visible Thinking, Habits of Mind, creativity, problem solving, critical reflection, teamwork and communication skills Developing spatial visualisation and manipulative skills with specialised equipment Allowing our girls to have fun while developing and sharing ideas in order to produce a tangible product from their learning experience Providing opportunities for the girls to explore their talents and interests in the STEM area as an Enduring Pursuit
The girls are working in small groups with the objective of building a scale replica of a bridge that can be used as a pedestrian link between the science laboratories and the new building currently under construction using set materials such as “paddle pop sticks”, glue, string and cardboard. Students in each group have defined roles: Engineer, Designer, Quantity Surveyor, Construction Manager, Project Manager and Spokeswoman/Recorder. The process includes:
Research on scientific principles, statics, forces Collaboration and planning Presentation/sharing of ideas Engineering and designing Drawing/drafting visual representation Geometry, measurements and conversions Calculation of material quantity and cost Keeping a digital project log Construction, critical reflection and refinement
To add an extra incentive to the challenge, each group is being judged according to their bridge’s maximum load capacity, aesthetic appeal, creativity in design, construction costs and build quality. The teamwork displayed by each group is also being considered in the judging process. Sparkling medals and much-coveted certificates will be awarded on merit in these criteria.
Justice
Freedom
SINCERITY
Verity
Felicity