WLPCS Library Newsletter
April 2018
Learning in the library
This year, we are setting records for student library learning. Thanks to those of you who have invited me to work with your classes!
Total classes this year-to-date: 225 periods
Last recorded total year-to-date: 180 periods
Math and Statistics Month
Celebrating Shakespeare
Making and Makerspace
The WLPCS makerspace is here! What is making, and what is a makerspace, you might ask? Here's how we think about it.
Making: Taking an idea and turning it into a physical object
Makerspace: A lab for creating physical objects. A Makerspace is more than just a technology center. Think of a Home Ec Room + a Wood Shop + a Computer Lab all rolled into one creative and flexible space.
We currently have available for use or checkout:
Arduino electronics kits
Legos
3D Printer
Students and teachers can use makerspace equipment by making an appointment with Ms. Hamm, Ms. Shapiro or Ms. Dobler. Break, lunch, recess, study hall, and tutorial are great times for students to make appointments. Teachers can come in during planning periods to learn to use equipment or set up a time for their class to come and learn more.
3D Printing
Getting a print is easy! All you have to do is send an email with the file to 3dprinter@latinpcs.org and fill out this form to tell us a little bit about the print job.
Thingiverse is a great open source database of printable objects. Using a Thingiverse file is a great way to get started with 3D printing, so check it out!
Ideas for making use of the 3D printer in your classes
- Design an exam review game and encourage students to create custom game pieces
- Make custom manipulatives to illustrate concepts like volume, fractions, and graphing
- Create 3D models of historical artifacts or habitats
- Design and print topographical maps to study geography
- Print custom framing for artwork or integrate printed pieces into larger works
- Issue an engineering challenge to solve a community problem
- Print set pieces to create and film create a 3D story
- Study models of historic technologies (think catapults and or water wheel)
- Design a custom coat of arms or country flag