Friday, March 13, 2015

Principal's Message

Dear Canyon View Families,

I hope everyone had a nice Rodeo Break and that you were able to spend some time with family and friends.  Last Friday, report cards were sent home with your child.  If you have any questions regarding your child’s progress or the information contained in the report please contact your child’s teacher and they will be happy to review the information with you. 

Next, the CFSD Foundation is participating in Arizona Gives Day on April 7. This statewide, 24-hour, online giving campaign is an exciting way for you and your family to donate to an organization that supports our excellent teachers.  Big or small, your donation can make an impact. We, along with the Foundation, will be sending out more information and instructions the day of this important campaign!

Finally, as you are aware each CFSD elementary school has been involved in a district-wide implementation of robotics instruction.  Students in grades 2-5 have been highly engaged in authentic deep learning experiences that incorporate the use of LEGO Robotic technology.  This endeavor has certainly challenged our students to develop and strengthen a wide variety of important skills that will carry over to other areas of their lives, and the benefits of this experience have certainly been worth the investment:

  • Encourages interest in STEM subjects and careers - students apply math, science, ELA standards and make connections across the curriculum
  •  Supplements and extends content area instruction
  • Teaches essential 21st Century skills - collaboration, problem-solving, project management, self-direction and persistence
  • Gives students solid understanding of how technology works
  • Motivates students to work hard and see work as fun

Below are the units of study for each grade level.  Please take a few minutes to review the unit summaries and have a conversation with your 2-5 grader(s) about their experiences during their time in robotics.

Grade 2: Smart Bots
Second grade students create and debug 2-4 step NXT programs using wheel rotations to measure distances and engineer simple arms to retrieve and deliver items.

Grade 3: Service Bots
Third grade students create and debug NXT light and touch sensor programs to respond to different conditions and engineer passive and active arms to accomplish serving tasks. 

Grade 4: Speed Bots
Students create and debug EV3 programs using a variety of move and sensor commands to respond to change and navigate obstacles.

Grade 5: Sport Bots
Students explore gear systems to engineer arms and create and debug EV3 programs to kick, putt and throw a ball and activate ball machines. 

Mrs. Ackerman has invested a tremendous amount of time, energy, and passion to ensure the success of this program, and we are sincerely honored to have her teaching our students, and staff, about how robotics can impact a child’s life for years to come!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Sincerely,

Rob Henikman
Principal