STEM Project Proposal

Title:  The Blob

Problem:  Students will work in teams to research, construct and design a solution for the Monster Lobe problem using Minecraft to create a simulated model.  Students will be presented with the following situation:  

“A giant blob of frozen soil, rocks and trees is slowly creeping along the Brooks Range demolishing everything in its path.  This Monster Lobe of icy debris is heading straight for Mile 219 of the Dalton Highway and the trans-Alaska oil pipeline located just beyond the Highway.  You and your team have been hired to save this critical highway and the Alaska pipeline from destruction by the Monster Lobe.”

Importance: The situation presented will be new to the students however it is an intriguing problem and it takes place in Alaska.

Students involved (number, grade level, etc.): At this point I have three students confirmed.  They range from 3rd to 7th grade, however the 3rd grader reads at a sixth grade level. I am hopeful to have additional students join before the first activity begins so we may have multiple groups. 

Math: I haven’t decided on the specific content standards but will involve the following:

Measurement & Data, Geometry, Ratios & Proportional Relationships, The Number System

Science content standards to be addressed include Science as Inquiry & Process, Concepts of Physical Science, Concepts of Earth Science, Science & Technology

Technology: Students will use MinecraftEdu to create a simulated model of their solution. Will use a variety of tools to gather scientific data, research the problem location and use MinecraftWiki to gain technical information as needed.

Engineering: Design a structure to solve a problem.

Reading & Geography: Students will read informational texts such as social studies, science, technical texts, including directions, forms, and information displayed in graphs, charts, or maps; and digital sources on a range of topics.

The completed unit will be shared with EDMA class using video and Powerpoint.