STEM

Too often students struggle to see ‘real world’ applications of Science, Technology, Energy, and Math (STEM) but through Bluegrass Greensource’s hands on activities in area classrooms, students are able to understand and relate.  Our classroom activities encourage students to explore, question, analyze, and even create products used in their everyday lives.

Thanks to a grant funded by the Kentucky Department for Energy Development and Independence (DEDI), Bluegrass Greensource was able to help local students better understand STEM by teaching them about coal  (its history, economy, and environmental impacts) and about alternative energy sources.

Recently, students at Lincoln County Middle School explored and analyzed alternative energy sources while conducting a Wind Turbine Lab.  With this activity, students reviewed designs of a typical windmill and its blades.  Students were then asked to brainstorm and design their own turbine blade. They examined and considered different shapes, sizes, and materials.   When their design was ready, students began assembling their wind turbine kit and building the blades.  Once assembled, students tested how quickly the turbines rotated using a digital voltage meter. If needed, students were encouraged to go back to the drawing board and reconfigure their designs.

As the students study and analyze their results, their hands-on lab experience gives them a better understanding of STEM’s components and Greensource is able to capture students’ attention and help them learn how to apply this new found knowledge to their daily lives.

For more information about our school programs, go to www.bggreensource.org/pk-12.