In our Junior Infants classroom, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) comes to life through hands-on, active learning experiences. Our learners are encouraged to explore and investigate the world around them, using concrete materials to solve problems and discover new ideas. With a focus on curiosity and creativity, they engage in exciting activities that make complex concepts accessible and fun. By working with real-world materials, our learners develop a love for learning and build foundational skills that will set the stage for future success in STEM fields.
Maths is often explored through station teaching, where learners rotate through activities using hands-on resources like counting blocks, number lines, and interactive games. These materials help our learners build a strong understanding of numbers, shapes, and patterns in a fun, engaging way, while allowing for personalized learning at each child’s pace.
St Marys BNS students enjoy exciting STEM activities, writing and drawing on their whiteboards, exploring ideas in their books, and interacting with the smart board to bring their learning to life!
In a recent classroom experiment the Junior Infants students eagerly investigate which part of the classroom is the hottest by using ice cubes. They begin by predicting where the ice will melt the fastest, and then, in small groups, they explore different areas of the room. As they place the ice in various spots, they analyze how quickly it melts in each location. After observing the results, the class comes together to discuss their findings and vote on which area of the room was the hottest. Through this hands-on experiment, the students learn about heat, temperature, and how to make predictions based on their observations.
The boys at St. Mary's BNS absolutely love STEM activities in the classroom! They eagerly dive into hands-on experiments, exploring new ideas with excitement and curiosity. Whether it's building, investigating, or solving problems, they enjoy every moment of learning, always eager to share their discoveries with their friends and teachers. The energy and enthusiasm they bring to STEM lessons make each day an adventure in learning at St. Mary's BNS.