STEM Program for Ages 9-11

Building Future Innovators

Students working on robotics

This group builds a deeper understanding of physical computing, real-world physics, electronics, and environmental science. They are introduced to prototyping and entry-level coding with guided independence.

Monthly Curriculum

October

  1. Summary: Maker mindset and design thinking.
  2. Kit: MakeDo Cardboard Construction Toolkit
  3. Meeting Focus: Design challenges and prototyping.
  4. Take-Home Work: Build something useful from cardboard. Reflect on iterations.

November

  1. Summary: Circuits and electricity.
  2. Kit: SmartLab “Smart Circuits” Kit
  3. Meeting Focus: Review current, voltage, resistance.
  4. Take-Home Work: Create a light-up maze or burglar alarm.

December

  1. Summary: Intro to Arduino microcontrollers.
  2. Kit: ELEGOO UNO Project Super Starter Kit
  3. Meeting Focus: What is a microcontroller? Blink an LED.
  4. Take-Home Work: Complete 2 beginner Arduino projects.

January

  1. Summary: Applied engineering.
  2. Kit: Thames & Kosmos “Physics Workshop”
  3. Meeting Focus: Levers, pulleys, gears—experiment in groups.
  4. Take-Home Work: Build 3 of the guided models. Document learnings.

February

  1. Summary: Robotics principles.
  2. Kit: OWI 14-in-1 Solar Robot Kit
  3. Meeting Focus: Kinetic energy, solar power, robotic movement.
  4. Take-Home Work: Build 3 different robot forms. Compare movement.

March

  1. Summary: Programming logic.
  2. Kit: Micro:bit v2 Starter Pack
  3. Meeting Focus: Intro to MakeCode platform.
  4. Take-Home Work: Program a thermometer or step counter.

April

  1. Summary: Creative coding.
  2. Kit: Tinkercad + Scratch Extension (virtual + printed kit)
  3. Meeting Focus: Visual programming and 3D modeling basics.
  4. Take-Home Work: Create a Scratch animation or model a 3D keychain.

May

  1. Summary: Biotech and experiments.
  2. Kit: MEL Science “DNA & Microscopy” Kit
  3. Meeting Focus: What is DNA? Microscopy lab.
  4. Take-Home Work: Extract DNA from fruit. Journal observations.

June

  1. Summary: Showcase Month
  2. Kit: Choose your own capstone from extra kits or extensions.
  3. Meeting Focus: Group presentations, mini science fair.
  4. Take-Home Work: Build or improve a previous project for demo.
Month Focus Kit Take-Home Work
October Renewable energy basics Snap Circuits Green Energy Build 2 circuits; reflect on “green” impact
November Robotics intro; block coding demo mBot Explorer Complete tutorial and line-follow mod
December Levers/tension; demo build KiwiCo Mechanical Claw Enhance claw for force or reach
January Inputs/outputs; demo light sensor micro:bit Starter Kit Create 2 projects (thermometer, quiz)
February IoT basics; sensor integration Elecfreaks Smart Home Build 2 smart systems, create pitch
March Robotics and loops LEGO SPIKE Essential Assemble robot and sensor routines
April Wearable circuits demo Tech Will Save Us Wearable Kit Build wearable, add switch or light
May Mechanical triggers; team build KiwiCo Chain Reaction Create unique chain reaction, video
June Prep showcase, feedback sessions Remix Kit + Showcase Prep Final project and presentation prep

What's Included

  • 9 complete project kits with all necessary components
  • Monthly in-person guidance sessions with experienced instructors
  • Student journal for tracking progress and reflections
  • Access to online resources and support materials
  • Showcase event in June to present projects and celebrate achievements
  • All materials included - no additional purchases needed
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