Key Stage 2 - STEM

Integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Overview

This topic introduces primary school students to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) through hands-on projects, problem-solving challenges, and real-world applications. By integrating these subjects, students will develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and computational skills, preparing them for a technology-driven world. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning and experimentation to nurture a passion for innovation.

Key Objectives

To develop an interdisciplinary approach to learning through STEM subjects.
To introduce engineering and design thinking through problem-solving activities.
To encourage computational thinking and basic coding skills.
To apply mathematical concepts in practical, real-world scenarios.
To foster creativity and innovation through hands-on STEM projects.
To explore the impact of technology and engineering on society and the environment.

Activities

At Queen’s Online School, students take part in enriching, skill-building activities. Each activity is thoughtfully designed to support confident, well-rounded learning.

Below are some of the activities available for our Key Stage 2 students

Building Simple Machines

Exploring levers, pulleys, and gears through construction projects.

STEM Challenges

Problem-solving activities such as designing a bridge, creating a marble run, or building a paper airplane for maximum distance.

Renewable Energy Experiments

Investigating solar power, wind energy, and water turbines.

Engineering Design Process

Introducing students to identifying problems, brainstorming solutions, prototyping, testing, and improving designs.

Introduction to Coding

Using platforms like Scratch, Blockly, or simple robotics kits to learn basic programming.

Digital Literacy

Exploring responsible internet use, digital safety, and basic troubleshooting skills.

Robotics and Automation

Hands-on activities with simple robots (e.g., Bee-Bots, LEGO WeDo).

Design and Technology

Exploring 3D design, circuits, and hands-on projects using technology tools.

Measurement and Data Handling

Using real-life data collection and analysis activities.

Math Puzzles and Logic Games

Encouraging problem-solving and reasoning through engaging challenges.

Pattern Recognition and Sequences

Exploring the role of math in coding, geometry, and nature.

Graphing and Statistics

Using STEM experiments to introduce students to representing and interpreting data.

Key Details

Assessment

Ongoing assessment through participation, problem-solving activities, and practical projects.
STEM journals for documenting experiments, observations, and reflections.
Group discussions and collaborative projects to encourage teamwork and communication.
Hands-on design and engineering challenges to assess creativity and critical thinking skills.

Resources

STEM kits and construction materials that you have to hand (LEGO, K'NEX, recycled materials).
Coding platforms and robotics kits (Scratch, BBC Micro:bit, LEGO WeDo).
Measuring tools, graphing software, and hands-on math manipulatives.
Digital resources, videos, and interactive learning platforms.

Outcomes

Students will develop problem-solving and logical reasoning skills.
They will gain confidence in engineering, coding, and technology applications.
They will improve mathematical fluency and its application in real-world scenarios.
They will foster creativity, teamwork, and resilience in tackling challenges.
They will understand the role of STEM in everyday life and future careers.
They will cultivate curiosity and an innovative mindset towards learning and discovery.