In today's rapidly evolving world, the demand for innovative and tech-savvy individuals is on the rise. STEAM education, integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, has emerged as a pivotal approach in nurturing the next generation of creative problem-solvers. At BIS, we are committed to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in this dynamic landscape through our exceptional STEAM course.
Enjoy the latest STEAM video⬇️
Class Schedules
Our students typically engage in one to two STEAM lessons per week, with additional opportunities for in-depth study and competition through our ASA (After School Activities) programme. This structured approach ensures that students have ample exposure to the exciting world of STEAM.
Course Content
Maker Space: In the lower grades, students focus on hands-on crafting, incorporating basic scientific principles into their creations. As they progress to higher grades, they tackle more complex engineering and scientific application problems through Project-Based Learning (PBL). They delve into advanced techniques such as 3D design, electronics, and woodworking, honing their practical skills and fostering a deeper understanding of real-world challenges.
Robotics: Younger students start with VEX GO and LEGO building, developing their manual dexterity. Older students then move on to the VEX IQ and Microbit platforms, applying the engineering design process to learn programming and mechanical construction. Along the way, they cultivate teamwork, problem-solving skills, and a passion for innovation.
We would like to introduce to you three campus showcase pieces that our students completed under the guidance of our STEAM teacher, Mr Dickson, during the first term of the 2024-2025 academic year.
The Big Ben on the First Floor
Modelled after the iconic London Big Ben, our school's Big Ben stands approximately four metres tall. Constructed primarily from KT boards, it features working clocks on all four sides. The roof of this magnificent structure is crafted by students in Years 5 and 6. They meticulously measure and cut the materials according to detailed design drawings, then carefully splice and colour the parts. This project demands a high level of precision and patience, as any error could affect the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the final piece. It is a true testament to the students' hands-on capabilities and attention to detail, while also adding a touch of British cultural charm to our campus.
The Gear Wall on the Second Floor
After learning about the mechanics of gears, students in Years 1 and 2 embark on a creative project to decorate the school stairwell with a gear wall. Using a variety of materials such as buttons, bottle caps, wool balls, wire, and straws, they transform each gear into a unique work of art. This not only brings a splash of colour to an otherwise dull space but also serves as a reminder to all students passing by of the importance of developing diverse skills for a successful life. It is a wonderful example of how STEAM education can blend art and science in a practical and inspiring way.
Mount Britannia on the Third Floor
Mount Britannia is a large natural landscape model, measuring 4.8 meters in length and width, and it is constructed around a central pillar. The hill is divided into four sides, each with a season as its theme. In addition to the plants on the slope, the model has some electric devices, such as cable cars, Ferris wheels, helicopters, windmills and cranes. There is also a Lego town with puppets.
The mountain, a testament to our students' creativity and resourcefulness, is made of scrap paper recycled from the school. Students from years 3 to 6 first shredded old books and crumpled them into paper balls. After a period of accumulation, we obtained a sufficient number of waste paper balls. Year 4 students stacked them, stuck them, and finally coloured them with the help of our dedicated STEAM teacher, Mr. Dickson.
Students from years 1 to 3 were responsible for making Lego boats and Lego town, a task they approached with enthusiasm and creativity. They first built the upper part of the boat, then installed it on the hull. Students from years 4, 5 and 6 made the windmills, helicopters and cranes respectively, while years 9, and 12 were responsible for making the Ferris wheels and cable cars. Year 4 students also enjoyed the process of installing fake trees and other devices, adding a touch of whimsy and fun to the project.
From this project, students learnt to use various materials to make models. They also gained some engineering knowledge, such as the structure of cable cars and Ferris wheels and the basic operating principles of electric motors and gears. From simple Lego to more complex transmission systems, this project also allowed students of all ages to exercise their hands-on skills and cultivate patience to overcome difficulties.
VEX Robotics Competition
The VEX Robotics Competition, founded in 2003 and hosted by the RECF (Robotics Education & Competition Foundation), is a world-renowned event aimed at inspiring students' interest in STEM fields and promoting teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. BIS team achieved remarkable results in the friendly match on November 16, 2024, ranking eighth and advancing to the finals. We also won the Sportsmanship Award. The team members started learning about VEX robot construction and programming at the beginning of the term, with two after-school practice sessions each week. They had to work on team coordination, strategise, and optimise the structure and programming of the robot. They encountered numerous problems along the way, but managed to resolve them all. This was the first time our school had formed a robotics team to participate in a competition. Despite facing other experienced teams, the members didn't show any timidity. Instead, they gritted their teeth and did their utmost to complete each round of the competition. The training process was arduous, but the sense of achievement from winning in the end was well worth it. Although this was just a friendly match, the team gained invaluable experience through exchanges with other teams, laying a solid foundation for future competitions.
Future City Competition
Future City is a globally acclaimed interdisciplinary project-based learning activity with a 30-year history. Each year, it centres around the theme of designing a sustainable city 100 years into the future, integrating science, technology, engineering, humanities, and mathematics. BIS team participated in this prestigious competition and won the third prize in the Middle-School urban design category. The preparation process was a journey of intense effort and innovation. The team members first familiarised themselves with the theme and requirements of the competition. Then, based on the limited resources and time, they set a project plan and began their project research. They brainstormed and came up with numerous ideas, eventually selecting the most suitable urban layout and highlighting the team's unique features. The biggest challenge they faced was the small size of the team and the tight schedule. Meetings increased from twice a week to daily sessions to catch up on the work. After nearly three months of hard work, they managed to complete both the paper and the city model, and also rehearsed for the competition presentation. This was the first time our school had sent a team to participate in a competition in another city. The team members accomplished this remarkable feat with their tenacious determination, which was truly an outstanding achievement!
STEAM education at BIS is expected to have a profound impact on our students' development. By cultivating essential 21st-century soft skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication, it can significantly enhance their competitiveness in future academic pursuits and career choices. According to educational research, students with a solid STEAM education background have a higher success rate in applying for STEM-related majors in universities.
Looking ahead, BIS is committed to further enhancing our STEAM curriculum. We plan to expand the depth and breadth of course content, incorporate the latest technological advancements and industry trends, and strengthen partnerships with external institutions and organisations. Our goal is to provide our students with even more opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation projects, participate in high-level competitions, and interact with experts in the field.
We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and innovation of BIS students as they embark on their journey to becoming the leaders and visionaries of tomorrow. We invite the wider community to support and engage with STEAM education, as together we can inspire and empower the next generation to reach for the stars.
