How Cool Is This?!

There is nothing we love seeing more in the library makerspace than seeing our friends develop into lifelong readers, and watching them learn and grow by experiencing STEM activities for themselves. The image above was taken of a few of Ms.Fritz's first grade friends coding on the Scratch Jr. app. To say that they were engaged is quite the understatement! They were absolutely loving creating original animations while using code. 

We thought we would add to their excitement and pride for their creations by allowing them to share with their friends on one of our big share screens. In fact, most of the 1st-5th grade classes have had an opportunity to share their original games, programs, or animations that they have created using Scratch (3rd-5th grade) or the Scratch Jr. app (1st and 2nd grade).

Between the building preparing for MAP testing, and the book fair visiting the library, we have had to make a few adjustments to library makerspace time for each class. However, our students have been adjusting to the changes fabulously. Just another testament to the strong character our students have here at Sappington!

As we begin testing over the next couple of weeks, the library makerspace will be transformed into a testing lab. This means that the library will remain closed during this time, BUT our friends will still get to experience literacy and STEM activities. You may be wondering how this will be possible with the library being closed, but with some clever thinking along with the many resources/technology available to us in the library makerspace, we have come up with activities that will be able to be brought directly to the classrooms. We will officially become a traveling makerspace! The activities planned will include a continuation of coding and stop motion movie making to build on the skills that they already have, sharing new books, and introducing some new and amazing apps. There may even be time for some circuit fun!

We are excited to see what everyone discovers in the weeks to come!