On May 2, 2014, more than 300 students, grades 4-8, gathered at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology to compete in the statewide finals of the 2014 Pennsylvania STEM Design Challenge, a competition that encourages students to apply skills in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
Upon arrival, the students were treated to opening remarks from Governor Tom Corbett. After welcoming the students, Gov. Corbett toured the competition floor to get a closer look at some of the projects.
For the challenge, students had two hours to build a vehicle using K’NEX rods, connectors and motors that must be able to travel at least four feet across a table and overcome at least one obstacle. Each team also needed to create a blueprint of their design and prepare a two-minute presentation on how their model answered the challenge. AquaPhoenix participated in judging the teams on key 21st-century learning skills including creativity, teamwork, challenge success, design and presentation.
Grades 4-5
1st – Northwestern Elementary – IU5 Northwest Tri-County
2nd – East Vincent – IU24 Chester County
3rd – Fox Township Elementary – IU9 Seneca Highlands
Honorable Mentions
Hamilton Heights Elementary – IU12 Lincoln
Lackawanna Trail Elementary – IU19 Northeastern
Tinicum School – IU22 Bucks County
Ben Franklin Elementary – IU28 ARIN
Grades 6-8
1st – Southern Columbia Area Middle School – IU16 Central Susquehanna
2nd – Hampton Middle School – IU3 Allegheny
3rd – East Vincent – IU24 Chester County
Honorable Mentions
William Penn Middle School – IU22 Bucks County
Beaver Area Middle – IU27 Beaver Valley
David E. Williams MS – IU3 Allegheny
Austin Area – IU9 Seneca Highlands
The event was sponsored by K’NEX, Thermo Fisher Scientific and Allegheny Intermediate Unit (IU3).