Science is a multidisciplinary field, requiring great care and creativity to teach. Pictured here is the annual 8th Grade “Rollercoaster Expo”, through which Middle School students learn physics principles like potential and kinetic energy. 8th graders worked in groups to create their own unique marble paper roller coasters, then invited parents, faculty, and fellow students to witness their creativity “in-motion!” See below for more details about this and how our Science Department faculty help make their pedagogical experiences come alive for our students.

Design-based Thinking in Action

The features here are the first in a new D-E Today editorial series on STEM, research and innovation initiatives, in both teaching and in learning.

D-E Students Exemplify ‘Innovation in Action’ During the Engineering Challenge

D-E Students Exemplify ‘Innovation in Action’ During the Engineering Challenge

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Last week, the Upper School’s 3D-Engineering (3D-E) Club and the Imperatore Library co-hosted the annual Science Buddies Engineering Challenge at D-E in recognition of National Engineers Week. US/MS students participated in the project, which consisted of building a landing pad for a paper rocket, meant to emulate the design of a “rocket catcher” in the real world. Jackson Chang ’25, a 3D-E student leader, said this project “gives people–in a kid-friendly way–the opportunity to dabble in engineering design.”
Innovation Coordinator Colleen Larionoff, who facilitated the challenge for the MS students, remarked that these activities are a great example of “innovation in action” because they aren’t tied to a class, and this gives students more freedom to explore and make mistakes. Seventh grader Ken Escobar ’30, said he participated in the challenge because “I feel like it’s an opportunity for collaboration… and now that I’m immersed in it, it seems fun.”