Summer STEM/ STEAM with Architecture
The school year is officially over! Students are happy and parents are searching for creative ways to engage their children in meaningful activities. This is the perfect opportunity to introduce students to architecture. Everyone is exposed to architecture, but not everyone is aware of the profession. This month we are sharing the best ways to introduce the creative, artistic STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) of architecture to students of all ages.
STEM Summer Camp
Our second annual Career Exploration Charrette for middle and high school students is now open for registration. OfficeWorks of Fishers, IN will host our program on July 10-14, 2023.
If you are looking for a summer camp/program for your middle or high school student that incorporates their interests, creativity, and the possibility of entrepreneurship, then REGISTER NOW!
The students will explore their hobbies and passions through the creative design of architecture. Each day from 1:00-3:00 pm EST, students engage in STEM that is directly connected to their interests. Last year we had students that were interested in sports, graphic design, writing, skateboarding, and baking, just to name a few. Parents of registered students will have access to the beautiful coworking space and complimentary WIFI of OfficeWorks during the charrette and on the final day will join their students for the showcase presentation.
At Home STEM Kit
When the pandemic took over the world, Next Great Architects responded with the Virtual Learning Experience. We took our signature after-school residency, The Neighborhood Design, and developed the virtual Neighborhood Master Plan project.
It is a self-paced project where the children will design a neighborhood while exploring urban planning and architecture. The project includes ten homes with different roof types and community spaces.
The virtual classroom includes all instructional videos, and the children will also have access to the interactive virtual studio. You can purchase the project in our store, and the materials will be shipped to you. This can also double as a great family activity.
STEM Portfolio
We didn’t forget about our college students! The summer is the best time to build your portfolio and resume and refine the elements you learned during the school year. If you are looking for ways to build your portfolio and/or resume. Email info@nextgreatarchitects with the subject: Advanced Studio Inquiry, and share with us your inquiry.
Family Fun STEM
Sugar Shacks
The most popular holiday activity is building gingerbread houses during Christmas. Sugar Shacks is a variation of that tradition that can be used year-round. To create sugar shacks all you need is graham crackers, marshmallow creme/fluff or icing, and all of your favorite candies and snacks. Use your creativity to build a house out of the treats and take pictures of the neighborhood you create.
It can be messy, so make sure you use easy to wipe surfaces for construction.
After School STEM
During the school year, Next Great Architects holds after-school programming for K-8 schools. Our programs follow the state academic standards while also providing a fun STEM experience for students. Students have designed neighborhoods, cities, skyscrapers, and more in our after-school program. We work with the schools on areas of focus. Administrators indicate what area of focus they prefer for their students and we can tailor our program to that need. For example, a math-focused program may include a fun way to calculate areas and perimeters. Regardless of the focus, all of our programs will include five key objectives:
1. Problem-Solving
2. Teamwork
3. Public Speaking
4. Graphic and 3D Communication
5. Confidence Building
If you would like Next Great Architects to host a residency at your student’s school, send an email to info@nextgreatarchitects with the subject: Next Great Architects Residency.
Next Great Architects is an award-winning teaching studio that introduces architecture to students as early as kindergarten and nurtures them through college and licensure. Contact us if you are interested in bringing our programs to your children, schools, or organizations.