STEM class incorporate invention based learning to explore science, technology, programming, engineering, math and, more. Students will learn about circuits, input and output devices while they go through a process to create, design, test and redesign their own inventions. Students will use Lego EV3 Robots and Lego Wedo to build and program robots that incorporate the use of touch, infrared and color sensors. They will learn coding in a simple and fun process using Dash & Dot robots. Using Bloxels, they will be able to create and share their own video games by combining physical building with special blocks and digital editing. All of these activities will help the students develop their creative confidence, apply knowledge to solving a problems, and encourage team work.

Keyboarding is an essential skill for the children to learn. In fact, keyboarding is now included in the Common Core State Standards. Common Core State Standards is a national guide of what students are expected to learn in schools. Fourth graders begin learning keyboarding in the Second Quarter and continuing throughout the year. Grade 5 continues to use a portion of their STEM Class to improve their skills in preparation for high school and beyond.
Practicing during class once a week is not enough. Student success is dependent on practice at home as well. Below, I have listed several web sites to help the students practice at home.
www.typing.com/
This is an excellent resource. The web site explains it best, “TypingWeb is a free online typing tutor & keyboarding tutorial for typists of all skill levels. TypingWeb includes entertaining typing games, typing tests, and free official typing certification.”
www.abcya.com/
This site includes various typing games. I simply caution students not to get too caught up in the game that they forget to type using the correct finger reaches and positions. Jump Key and Cup Stack Typing works on individual keys.
www.sense-lang.org/typing/games/index.php?lang=EN
This site has several games and tutorials. Just be sure that you are using the correct finger positions.