STEM Pipeline Summer Camp students engaged in problem based learning (PBL), collaborated in order to respond to a complex question, problem, or challenge, practiced 21st Century Skills (such as collaboration, communication & critical thinking) and created high-quality products & digital media presentations. The STEM Pipeline Summer Camp took place at North Davie Middle School and was attended by 28 students representing all three middle schools and 4 junior counselors.
During the first week of camp, students were presented with two different forensic cases. In The Case of the Murdered Mayor, students worked in investigative teams and applied scientific principles in order to solve a fictional murder mystery. Then, in the Golden River Heist, students assumed the role of a forensic scientist to solve a fictional crime by integrating concepts in physics, chemistry, and biology. As a culminating activity, students visited Discovery Place in Charlotte.
In the second week, students assumed the role of automotive engineers. They were challenged to design and construct a model car that was powered by an electric motor using direct current from a solar cell. Students considered factors such as weight, gear ratios, sun angle, aerodynamics, traction, friction, wheelbase, and front- or rear-wheel drive. Student groups tested their designs by racing their cars on a straight track and competing for shortest elapsed time. As a culminating activity, students visited the Nascar Hall of Fame and Museum.
This is an example of how community donations are working through the Davie Community Foundation in the form of community grants. Every dollar donated is added to the fund it is designated for. You can be part of the solution by donating to the Community Impact Fund at any time, in any amount. Your gifts make projects like this possible!
