Enrichment Programs
Coding: Students in some of the third, fourth, and fifth-grade classes have been introduced to Scratch. Scratch is a high-level block-based visual programming language and website targeted primarily at children 8–16 as an educational tool for programming. Users on the site, called Scratchers, can create projects on the website using a block-like interface. The first project tasks students with animating their names using sounds, color, and motion.
EPIC digital library
What’s New in Coding?
- Students in fifth grade are learning to code simple games. Here is an example: Queen Gobo game by Kasely Disla
- Third and Fourth Graders are working on creating a short cartoon. Here is an example: Jayleen from Salgueiro’s Class
- Kindergarten and First grade students are working on how to change the background so that a character moves from one scene to another. They also enjoy creating characters and backgrounds using the painting features.
- Codesters students are working on coding the dance movements of a character Cory from Rettew’s classand also creating their initials using an xy coordinate plane.Thierno Bah
STEM Science Program
At PS 204 we recognize the importance of STEM. STEM is curriculum-based and includes four specific disciplines – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics – in an interdisciplinary and applied approach.
LEGO Education
LEGO Education STEAM learning solution is for primary school students. SPIKE Essential engages students in hands-on investigations of STEAM concepts using everyday themes. In addition to learning computer science and design engineering concepts, students develop their literacy, math, and social-emotional skills as they turn concepts into reality.
SPIKE Essential curriculum
SPIKE Essential curriculum units are designed around playful narrative-based problem-solving with relatable themes that can develop young students into independent STEAM thinkers.
The first unit we did was called “Train to Win”. The second unit we are presently doing is called “Winning the Science”. Both units are teaching the students an understanding of forces and motion and keeping them engaged while conducting investigations. In addition, they are developing their collaborative conversation skills as they effectively engage in a variety of discussions. These units will give my students an understanding of forces and motion as they plan and conduct investigations about the cause and effect of push and pull forces.
Each unit consists of seven lessons that are designed to help the students with the process of asking and answering questions, data analysis, and how to present their ideas. Their goal is to work towards determining whether design solutions work as they were intended to change the speed or direction of an object with a push or a pull.
Studio-In-A-School
Studio-In-A-School works with students to teach the visual arts; drawing painting, collages, and sculpting. The art cycles integrate with the ELA Units of Study in all grades.
Student Government
Student Government is a group of students who are voted by their peers to represent the ideas and voices of their grades. The Student Government meets every Wednesday from 8:00-8:30 am. The Student Government also meets once a month after school, to share their ideas with a team of teachers. At these meetings, representatives discuss what would improve our school. They visit buddy classrooms and ask students what new ideas they are interested in seeing implemented in our school. The student council gives students an opportunity to be leaders in our school and to have a voice. These students are role models inside and outside the classroom.