In Grade 3, students broaden their digital literacy skills by mastering typing and file management, preparing them for the increasingly tech-driven world. They delve into creative programming using Sphero robots, explore the vibrant world of Splats coding, and bring their imagination to life with stop motion animation videos, nurturing their love for innovation and technology.

In Grade 4, students strengthen their digital communication skills by learning typing, email, and printing techniques. They delve into the realms of photo and video editing, enhancing their creativity and storytelling abilities. Additionally, they explore the engaging world of Minecraft while learning about the importance of digital citizenship, ensuring they develop into responsible and tech-savvy young innovators.

In Grade 5, students embark on an exciting journey of hands-on engineering projects, building their own dulcimers, working with Micro Bits and mechanics, and diving into the world of LEGO Robotics. Their skills are put to the test as they collaborate to create a thrilling LEGO Carnival, fostering teamwork and problem-solving abilities while cultivating a passion for innovation.

Dulcimers

• Students learn the fundamentals of using hand tools and constructing an instrument using a kit.
• Completed dulcimers are used in music class and for concerts.

Micro:Bits

• Students learn the fundamentals of computer programming using block code. 
• Physical computing integrates use of motors and basic carboard construction to create moveable projects.

Lego Robotics 

• Students work with Lego Spike Prime kits to build and code interactive models.
• Logic, troubleshooting, debugging, prototyping, and evaluation are explored within this unit.

In Grade 6, students take their design skills to new heights by mastering 3D design and printing techniques, enabling them to bring their ideas to life in three dimensions. They also explore 2D design principles and apply their knowledge to build innovative mouse trap cars, honing their engineering skills and creative problem-solving abilities along the way.

3D Modeling & Printing

• Students learn the fundamentals of precision 3D modeling and printing using TinkerCAD

• Students create useful everyday objects, models of larger objects and imaginative creations. 

2D Design and Laser Cutting

• Students learn the fundamentals of laser cutting constructions. 

• They learn to use engraving, scoring and cutting to create 2D and 3D objects out of wood.

Mouse Trap Car – Capstone

• Students use the skills acquired to design and build cars powered by a mouse trap.

• These cars will be put to the test in a classroom distance competition!

In Grade 7, students deepen their understanding of design and engineering by exploring the ancient art of origami, learning how to create intricate, three-dimensional shapes from a single sheet of paper. They then translate these skills into the world of paper prototyping and fabrication, enabling them to bring their innovative ideas to life through tangible, functional models.

Origami

• Students learn the fundamentals of precision folding technique as they work their way through a range of origami projects.

Card Board Construction

• Students learn the fundamentals of cardboard construction and joinery techniques. 

• They learn to use scoring and cutting to create complex 3D structures.

Capstone

• Students will work together use these skills to prototype solutions to a design challenge.

In Grade 8, students expand their innovation skills through a diverse range of projects. They delve into bushcraft, learning valuable survival and outdoor skills while connecting with nature. Students also explore the world of design by creating unique chair designs, incorporating ergonomics, aesthetics, and functionality. Finally, they tap into their creativity with digital music production, mastering the art of composing, editing, and mixing original tracks.

Lashing

• Students will learn four basic lashing techniques: square, diagonal, shear and tripod.

Tools & Foraging

• Students will learn to source materials from nature for building structures.

• Students will learn to safely use a few key tools in the process.

Mini and Full Scale Structures

• Students will work together use these skills to build a small scale and large scale sculptures, shelter and furniture.

FIRST Lego League is a global competition where students will understand the basics of STEM and apply their skills while building habits of learning, confidence, and teamwork skills along the way. The DDS Roarbotics team has been competing in local tournaments since 2007. As part of our enrichment program, our team travels to a regional competition in January each year.