Mint Canyon Community School, a California Distinguished School and National Blue Ribbon School in the Sulphur Springs School District, launched the Junior Engineering and Technology Program (JET) designed for Kindergarten through 2nd grade students. This unique program uses Project Based Learning (PBL) integrating the New Generation Science Standards (NGSS), with a focus on engineering and technology.
Kindergarten through second grade students use iPads and Smartboards to research and problem solve an essential life question. The Engineering and Design Process is used throughout the lessons as students imagine, create and then build their products. Common Core standards are imbedded throughout the lessons as students practice reading and writing skills in a practical and fun approach.
Kindergarten students became “mechanical engineers” and researched and measured wind using their own anemometers and discussed the wind’s effects on the school garden. Students then discovered that a windmill would be the best approach to keeping our school garden cool.
First graders “acoustical engineers” discovered that sound can be seen and felt, as well as heard. They investigated sound waves and vibrations to create an instrument that would help fellow students who were hard of hearing, hear music.
Second grade students used their civil engineering skills to find the best bridge that would connect Mint Canyon School to Sierra Highway. Two weeks of research and design, building and strength testing, proved that and “arch bridge” would be best!
Mint Canyon JET students also participated in the “Hour of Code” and learned basic coding skills by programming animated characters through mazes and trails. Follow us on Twitter @MintCanyonJETS.