Force and Motion an Interdisciplinary project with Math and Science

Conducting an interdisciplinary unit with Math and Science seems like a natural phenomenon. This presentation describes the journey to develop a unit with 8th grade students who are taking Algebra 1 and Earth and Space science. The project focuses on force and motion. This project is the beginning of building a STEM unit at the school. An important skill for middle school students to develop is critical thinking. A STEM curriculum is beneficial to teaching students critical thinking skills in conjunction with their Science and Math skills. This interdisciplinary unit fills the need for students to learn the skills they need to build a STEM-based foundation.

This STEM project focuses on the application of concepts. Applying the information with guidance from their instructors has implications that participate in constructing meaning in their learning is a step to developing critical thinking. Although schools focus on applications, the competencies connected to our socio-emotional status are linked through meaningful communications based on the competencies learned in Algebra. These competencies require that our students can think critically. STEM education provides the vehicle for teachers to address critical thinking beyond a single subject.