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Exciting Additions to Our MakerSpace!

Several new additions to our MakerSpace have been a huge hit with our students!

While our STEM teacher Mike Elliott was attending the ISTE convention this past June, he found a treasure trove of innovative products. A Johnson Technology Grant funded the purchase of Clixo sets, Intelino trains, and ArcKit models.

model of baby seal built from Clixo pieces

Clixo pieces are flexible and magnetic; they allow students to experience building in 3D in a completely new way. Since the structures are not rigid, balance becomes the most important factor in ensuring the models retain their shape. Students also learn about the properties of magnets as they manipulate the pieces.

Interlino train track with engine and coding tiles

Intelino trains are not only tremendous fun (who doesn't like making trains run?), but also introduce coding to our youngest students. The actions of the train engines are determined by the colored tiles placed on the tracks. Older students move beyond the tiles to program the engines with Scratch or Python.

Four student-designed houses built with ArcKit pieces

The ArcKit company has created a revolutionary new way for kids to build — these architectural building components can be used to create both pre-designed models and structures that the kids themselves design. The kits include workbooks that thoughtfully explore what design considerations are necessary for the environment the houses will be situated in.