S.T.E.A.M. is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. Cherryvale has developed a STEAM Lab that is operated by a dedicated staff member who works with teachers to help students explore STEAM in the lab. Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Launch is curriculum used within the lab. Each grade level uses PLTW kits and the PLTW website to conduct science experiments, complete engineering tasks. VEX Robots are also part of the PLTW kits for fourth and fifth grade students. VEX robotic kits allow students to use their creativity and problem solving skills to build and test different robot configurations and use coding to program the robot to do specific tasks.
In addition to PLTW, the STEAM lab also has Lego Wedo 2.0 Robotics kits for K-3 students to teach basic engineering and coding.
Makers Space
Many classrooms and the Media Center have makers spaces in the room for students to use their engineering, design, and coding skills.
What are the arts?
The arts include six areas: Creative Writing, Dance, Media Art, Music, Theater, and Visual Art.
Cherryvale is an Arts in Basic Curriculum (ABC) Site and receives funding from the SC Arts Commission to fund opportunities and instruction in the arts for all students. The arts empower students to express themselves within all academic areas. The arts are used as instructional tools in ELA, Science, Social Studies, and Math. Music and Visual Art are considered core subjects by the federal government in the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015.
Why S.T.E.A.M.?
- Develops valuable life skills like logical reasoning, critical thinking, collaboration, problem solving, communication, and creativity.
- Builds character traits like confidence, self-esteem, imagination, persistence, and self motivation.
- Expands knowledge and interest in the five CORE disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts (music, visual art, dance, theater, media arts, and creative writing) and Math.
- Inspires kids to pursue STEAM degrees which offer jobs in high demand, higher income and earning potential, the ability to make a positive impact on society, build stronger communities, and develop leadership skills needed in the 21st century society and work force.
- Meets the South Carolina Profile of the Graduate.
S.T.E.A.M. Core Competencies
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
- Communication
- Collaboration and Teamwork
- Information Literacy
- Appreciation for Diversity
- Learning to Learn (Metacognition)
The design process is how we solve problems in the real world. After the problem is determined, a burning question is asked followed by research and exploration. A solution is then discovered and a model or prototype is developed. The model is tested and evaluated. If the model works, then it is presented and explained as the solution. If the model does not work, then more research and development is conducted for a better and more effective solution.
