Rahway Stem Summer Camp

The Rahway STEM Summer Camp was held for three weeks this summer and designed for students entering grades 5 through 8 with a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The camp was led by certified math and science teachers incorporating a projectbased STEM curricula.
Students learned the fundamentals of inquiry-based science, math, and engineering principles using activities from teacherinitiated, student-centered investigations. They applied Newton’s Laws of Motion as they researched the difference between work and power. Model rockets were constructed and launched to support their investigation of trigonometry and the calculation of height and distance.
Students engaged in problem solving activities utilizing math and science without the pressure of standardized testing. High powered radio-controlled cars allowed them to learn engineering, math, and science principles by collecting data on acceleration, thrust, force, and gravity. They were challenged at the end of each week to compete against other team members for a demonstration of knowledge, skill, and teamwork receiving medals and trophies for their accomplishments.
Individuals designed a race track utilizing the Cartesian plane with constraints such as area and right-triangle trigonometry that helped them better understand upcoming PARCC-like assessment questions.