The transition to middle school can be daunting for students, but Carver’s summer transition programs are here to ensure our rising 6th graders at West Rocks Middle School make this move with confidence and enthusiasm.
Under the expert leadership of Michael Richards, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Social Studies Subject Area Leader, and Carver's longtime Grade 6 Summer Transition Program Director, our students thrive in an environment designed to foster growth and curiosity.
Carver’s summer transition programs in each of Norwalk’s four middle schools offer individualized instruction, parental involvement, small group learning experiences, diverse enrichment STEAM activities, free transportation, and full-day activities benefiting working families. This comprehensive approach helps students learn the basics of navigating their new school, meet their teachers and classmates, and build a solid academic foundation.
One of the standout aspects of our program this summer has been the engaging STEM activities that have captured the imagination and enthusiasm of our students. These hands-on projects are fun and help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Building the Tallest Tower
Using only paper and tape, our students were challenged to construct the tallest tower possible. This activity required them to think creatively about structure and stability while working collaboratively with their peers. The emerging towers were as diverse as the students, showcasing various design ideas and engineering principles.
DaVinci Bridges
Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's ingenuity, our students used rubber bands and pencils to create "DaVinci Bridges." This activity highlighted the importance of tension and balance in engineering, teaching students how simple materials can create strong and stable structures. The excitement in the room was palpable as each group tested the strength of their bridges, learning through trial and error.
Creating Aluminum Foil Boats
In another exciting project, students designed and built boats from aluminum foil. The goal was to create a ship that could float and carry as many small objects as possible without sinking. This activity combined buoyancy, weight distribution, and material properties, challenging students to apply scientific principles practically and enjoyably.
These STEM activities are a testament to Carver’s commitment to providing a well-rounded and engaging educational experience. By allowing students to experiment, build, and create, we are fostering a love of learning and a curiosity about the world around them.
