Anatomy S.T.E.A.M. Art Project

STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics. The idea of emphasizing these subjects in delivering the curriculum has been driven by the business community, with the goal of preparing an agile and competitive workforce. It is important to note that STEAM is not a program, but a philosophy.  In the real world, content knowledge is interwoven, layered and sophisticated, not experienced in isolation such as in traditional education settings (separate math time, separate science time, etc.). STEAM skills are vital for success in the 21st century and critical to our collective future. The "Critical C's" of Collaboration, Cooperation and Communication are emphasized through project based learning, usually through interdisciplinary (across subjects) activities. (information from Hilburn Academy, Raleigh, NC)

At Westfield, we were lucky to have Lisa Boire join our science department this year.  Lisa teaches Anatomy.  Oddly enough, Lisa asked me to borrow some masking tape to hang a project in the hall.  I thought to myself, this sure is interesting.  A science teacher contributing to the hall art.  I went to have a look and WOW!  I was so excited to see the massive pieces of the paper with the bones and skeletal muscles labeled. 

The Project Requirements

The first thing that Lisa suggested was for the students to use the smallest person in their group to make a template.  Also, they had to work together with each student doing their "fair" share.  If students could not meet at school due to scheduling conflicts, they had to pass the "Bodies" back and forth or gather together after school.  Bodies sometimes spent the night at different student's homes to allow all the students to participate on the project. 

What are SOME ways that Lisa incorporated S.T.E.A.M.?

Science-Labeling the bones and muscles

Technology-Research and communicating with other over text about the project

Engineering-Applied scientific principles to design and construct on paper

Art-Used different colors and materials to produce an project that was visually pleasing

Math-Used measurement to calculate the size of the project

Project Directions: (Lisa provided students with a checklist)

1-Draw Bones

2-Label Muscles on the front side

3-Pay attention to muscles fiber directions

4-Communicate with each other about the project

I found a perfect song to go with this post.  "Body Language" by Queen.  Love the "Andy Warhol" album cover on the album Hot Space.

1965