Inventions & Engineering
Class # 5
Grades: 2- 3
Class Overview
Did you know that some of the world’s finest inventions like bubble gum, Coca-Cola, Band-Aids and Post-it notes were invented by chance? We think the next great inventor might be joining this class! This is your opportunity to enter the world of engineering and invent something new.
You will be invited to solve everyday problems by creating solutions and thinking creatively while you do it. We will learn about simple machines and put our new knowledge to use in building amusement park rides. We will create catapults and learn how to engineer them to shoot the farthest distance and most accurate location. We will build and test structures, instruments, rockets, and cars. This class will involve a lot of hands-on exploration of how things work, but you will also be challenged to think about, plan, and create your own invention. This will take creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Maybe you will invent a new kitchen gadget, a tasty food, or a new toy or game. You can look forward to this and so much more when you sign up for Inventions and Engineering.
Teachers
Tracy Pluim
Tracy Pluim is an extension teacher and Instructional Strategies Facilitator at Turtle Lake Elementary School in the Mounds View School District. He has taught after school programs and summer programs through his district. He has a Master of Arts in Curriculum Instruction as well as a license in administration. This will be Mr. Pluim’s seventh year with the Academy.
Anna Pluim
Anna Pluim has worked with students of all ages. After several years of leading her own classroom, she has decided to substitute teach and spend more time at home with her two young sons. Anna has a passion for encouraging students to think creatively and to be confident in their skills and abilities. This will be her sixth year with the Academy.
Julie Lyttle
Julie Lyttle has been a teacher with the Mounds View Public Schools for 23 years. Julie has taught 4th and 5th grade, and currently teaches 3rd grade which she has done for the past 11 years. She holds a Master of Education in Elementary Education from the University of Minnesota. This will be Mrs. Lyttle’s fifth year with the Academy.
Elyse Leiser
Elyse Leiser is a fourth grade teacher at Turtle Lake Elementary School in the Mounds View School District, where she has taught for 27 years. She graduated from Butler University and did her masters work through St. Scholastica. Elyse enjoys teaching science, engaging students by asking questions, and encouraging students to problem solve through hands-on activities. Elyse has served as a substitute at Summer Academy in past years, but this will be her first year as an instructor.
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Remember you can apply for up to 5 courses but you’ll only be placed in one course.