Earth and space science lessons

Students will learn to think like chemical engineers as they delve into the dye technologies that allow us to express ourselves through colorful clothing. They will read and discuss complex texts, analyze concept maps and graphs, and develop an appreciation for indigenous (Māori) dye technology.

Level-up data literacy skills by practicing the "PPSTT" Framework for unlocking any graph's secrets. Students watch scientists model this approach & then try it on their own using multiple data types, including: the frequency of certain words in books, streamflow rates, and maps.

Food and climate are deeply connected. Students will dig into data to discover how our food choices impact greenhouse gas emissions. They will propose solutions to reduce their carbon “foodprint,” both as current consumers and as future food engineers. Students will eat this up in class and savor it for years to come!

Students will learn that hybrids are not flukes—they’re commonly found in the wild and our grocery stores! By playing and reflecting on Foraging Frenzy (a research-inspired memory game) students will appreciate how climate change affects species ranges and the direction of evolution.

Learn about the energy all around us through a hands-on power generating lab, a web app exploring resilient energy mixes, and stories about Māui’s innovation. In Te Reo Māori, the unit title translates to "It is through positive energy that we thrive." This unit connects to Māori leadership in self-sufficiency and sustainability as inspiration for the future of energy engineering!

Students will gain a new appreciation for water as they reflect, mind-map, embody different STEM roles, and perform a choose-your-own adventure chemistry lab. Throughout, they will be exposed to Pacific languages, proverbs, and STEM solutions in this unique learning experience.

Embark on a journey through time and space to understand what light really is and how humans use it. From starting fires with sunlight, to sending messages to other planets, to current research in photonics, students will become more curious about light in their daily lives!