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Caitríona I like how you start by finding out what the children already know before making the maps. The walk around the school is a great idea because it makes the learning real and helps the children understand maps in a fun, hands-on way.
• Explore how you would use some of the online data sets in your teaching of data in maths and to highlight the application of maths in real world contexts.
I would use online data sets with my class to help children see that maths is part of everyday life. We could look at simple information like the weather, rainfall or local wildlife and make bar charts, pictograms and tables. We could compare the data, answer questions and talk about what we notice. This would help children practise maths skills in a fun and meaningful way. I would also link the data to our own school by collecting information, such as how pupils travel to school or favourite playground games, and compare it with the online data. This helps children see that maths is useful both in school and in the real world.
I agree Jonathan. I also found that visits to Birr Castle really show children how STEM connects to real life. Hands-on activities, teamwork and giving pupils the chance to test and improve their ideas help make learning more meaningful and enjoyable. A great day out!
• Having reviewed the paper Unravelling STEM: Beyond the Acronym of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (Liston 2018) reflect on what STEM education looks like in your classroom.
In the classroom, I try to give children real problems to solve together. Last year, we did a STEM bridges project where the children planned, built and tested bridges using simple materials. They worked in teams, solved problems and improved their designs when things did not work. This helped them see how science, maths and engineering all work together. This paper has made me think that I can make even more links between all four STEM areas. I want my pupils to enjoy learning through hands-on activities and see how STEM connects to everyday life.
