Below are the module from the 2013 STEM Camp. You can download each module by clicking on the title.

Moving Down the Road

This activity compared the benefits and challenges of alternatives to the conventional automobile, such as hybrids and fuel cell vehicles. Campers assumed the role Mechanical Engineers to build and race model electric vehicles.

IS IT GETTING HOT IN HERE?:

Campers learned about the effects of carbon dioxide on the climate system and investigated temperature and carbon dioxide levels over the past 400,000 years. This knowledge helped campers understand anthropogenic climate change and the need for a sustainable lifestyle.

FUTURE WORLDS:

Campers learned about the roles of mathematics and analytical methods in understanding and developing sustainable solutions to environmental issues. The activity consisted of two parts including 1) Mathematical modeling kits, which allowed the campers to practice combining different pieces to make a complete structure and 2) Interaction with “Future Worlds”, a cyber-learning platform for informal explorations in sustainability, which enables campers see how our choices as a society today can affect our planet in the future.

HOME GROWN:

How we manage our food resources has a big impact on the health of our environment. This activity introduced campers to food sustainability, and introduced terms and ideas including free dairy products, rBGH, sustainable seafood, humane treatment and organic foods. The activity concluded with a game of Food Origins Bingo.

WAY TO FLOW:

Where does our water come from and where does it go? Campers learned the steps it takes to bring water from our rivers or aquifers to our houses, and what happens when water goes down the drain. Campers also discussed why it is important to conserve water. Campers competed in a game of Water Jeopardy to conclude the activity.

RAIN BARRELS:

This activity defined storm water and explained the importance of properly managing storm water. Campers learned that installing a rain barrel is part of a set of solutions to better manage our water resources. Campers had the opportunity to paint rain barrels.

SOLAR ENERGY:

Campers learned about solar powered energy- specifically about solar panels as well as solar thermal conversion. Campers should now be able to identify solar powered energy as a renewable resource.

ORGANIC FARM:

While touring the Lafayette College Farm, campers compared the differences between local and non-local foods. Campers also learned that how and where we grow our food can harm our environment.

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE:

Campers learned what irrigation is and about some of the positive and negative implications of common irrigation techniques. Campers learned about sources of water commonly used for irrigation, such as groundwater from aquifers and surface water.

WIND ENERGY – I’M A BIG FAN:

Campers learned about the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy. Campers learned about wind energy and identified which classification of energy it falls into. Campers also learned about wind turbines and how they work.