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Puxi Campus G1: STEAM WEEK - Marble Maze Adventure

May 27, 2024

This week, the first graders transformed into "scientists" and "engineers" to create their own marble mazes. Using a variety of creative materials to build complex structures, they were tasked with applying skills from multiple disciplines in a cross-disciplinary adventure.

During the design process of the marble maze, the children become "scientists". In their new roles, they racked their brains, vowing to design interesting and challenging mazes. They explored concepts such as gravity, motion, and energy as they planned the meandering paths of the marbles. With a curious mindset and a spirit of exploration, the "little scientists" conducted experiments to see how the shape, material, and location of the maze elements would affect the journey of the marbles.

After the design was finalized, it was time to enter the field of mathematics. Our math whizzes carefully measured the length of the tubes, the height of the ramps, and the distance between the obstacles. They used rulers and their math skills to ensure that the maze could be built with precision.

With the design completed, it was time to build the magnificent marble maze! The children transformed into "engineers" and demonstrated their creativity and construction skills. They focused and unwaveringly assembled the mazes, constantly testing and improving their creations along the way. They solved problems, collaborated with classmates, and threw themselves into the construction. After two days of unremitting efforts, each marble maze they built became a unique work of art. Brightly colored tubes wound their way, and obstacles made of clay challenged the laws of physics. When the little marbles rolled down for the final test, the excited cheers of the students filled the classrooms. How exciting it is to watch your design come to life!

But the learning didn't stop there! This week, the children learned the rigorous scientific fundamentals of prediction, construction, trial and error, and correction. They also encountered many challenges in the process of building. Whether building roads with straws, glue, and clay or designing their own unique structures, the little engineers demonstrated creativity and problem-solving skills. Mathematics was also a major focus throughout the Steam Week. The math whizzes applied their skills in measurement, counting, and model building to support their explorations in science, technology, engineering, and art. In the field of art, our students expressed their boundless imaginations through decoration, painting, and other forms. Vibrant colors, complex patterns, and truly unique masterpieces emerged from their inspired minds and talented hands.

The first graders welcomed the "marble maze" challenge during Steam Week, demonstrating their critical thinking abilities, creativity, and collaboration skills. They gained valuable experience, sparked their curiosity, and tapped into their unlimited potential. Most importantly, they had fun while learning and learned while having fun!

Written by Thea Chen, Courtney Templeton

Pictures by G1 Teachers, Siying Li

Edited by Cong Luo, Bianca Noguera