AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO LEARNING
An exciting new program is now available at Luther Burbank Middle School.
The S.T.E.A.M. for the Future class has continued its success. This class is taught by a few of Luther’s best teachers, Mrs. Jessica Schackne, Ms. Stefanie Enokian, and Mrs. Alanna Grimaldi. Both Ms. Schackne and Ms. Grimaldi have been instrumental in creating and implementing the new Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) curriculum for the District and they are incorporating these concepts into the learning environment for the class. Ms. Enokian, who is the Burbank Unified School District Engagement Structures Coach and National Kagan Trainer, also brings her strategies and wide spread knowledge to the classes.
The S.T.E.A.M. class utilizes the incredible technology of virtual and augmented reality with zSpace 3D computers. Students have been exploring Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math with topics that include explosion diagrams, 3D dissections, and designing and engineering in 3D space, all while deepening their learning of physical science, life science, and earth science. They have created engagement opportunities through 3D exploration and hands-on, student-centered experiences.
The Luther Middle School community is extremely proud of our zSpace computer lab. zSpace technology really brings student learning into the future as noted in the 2019 December-January issue of the CTA Educator Magazine’s Innovation issue. Luther staff and students are fortunate to be a part of the Burbank Unified School District where the administration appreciates and supports science and technology. If you have never seen a zSpace 3D computer before, you can check one out at https://zspace.com. Below is a video from their website.
Catapult Project
For the medieval catapult, stored tension equals the power of projectile motion – which now equals awesome learning power! This demonstrates:
• Force and motion.
• Vectors.
• Trajectory.
• Potential and kinetic energy.
• Simple machines.
• Medieval history.
Plus, students can develop math, physics, and problem-solving skills by experimenting with the catapult to reach different distances with varying weights of ammunition (pieces of clay). Going back to the Dark Ages has never been so enlightening!
Prepare for the future
with a class that incorporates all the elements of S.T.E.A.M: (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). You will work in Luther’s amazing
zSpace Computer Lab
on 3D computers, and experience virtual and augmented reality with an
Integrated Curriculum
to build exciting contruction and experimental projects, and
bring home
your own art and engineering/construction projects, and a S.T.E.A.M. t-shirt.
Classes are planned for several sessions throughout the school year as well as a summer session. The class can be retaken, projects will be different.