STEM: Embracing Cross-Curriculum Teaching

In today’s classrooms, teaching is no longer confined to isolated subjects. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) encourages a cross-curriculum approach, connecting multiple disciplines to create a more holistic learning experience. At Beyond the Beanstalk, we believe that learning is most effective when subjects intertwine, especially for younger learners who benefit from recognising familiar ideas across different contexts.

Cross-curriculum teaching is about seeing the bigger picture. Instead of dividing lessons into rigid categories, STEM activities blend concepts naturally. For example, building a bridge involves science (forces and materials), mathematics (measurements and angles), and technology (design and problem-solving). This integrated approach mirrors real-world scenarios, helping learners understand that knowledge is connected, not separate.

Children building a geodesic dome

For younger learners, this method is particularly powerful. Children grasp ideas more easily when they can relate them to everyday experiences. A lesson about plants, for instance, might cover biology (how plants grow), mathematics (measuring growth), and literacy (describing observations). By linking subjects, children develop a deeper understanding and are more likely to retain information. This also nurtures critical thinking, as they learn to apply knowledge across different situations.

A cross-curriculum approach also reduces the repetitive nature of segmented learning. Instead of teaching skills like graph-making or writing summaries as isolated tasks, they become part of a larger, meaningful project. For instance, during a STEM activity, children might collect data, create a graph, and write a summary – all within the context of a single investigation. This practical application of multiple skills not only saves time but also helps learners understand how these elements work together in real life, enhancing their ability to transfer knowledge across subjects.

Pendulums for varied learning

Moreover, connecting subject areas encourages a deeper engagement with the learning process. When lessons are presented as part of a cohesive story or project, students are more motivated to explore and inquire. This method fosters creativity and problem-solving as learners encounter challenges that require drawing on different disciplines simultaneously. By combining subjects, educators create a more dynamic and adaptable learning environment that reflects the complexities of the modern world.

At Beyond the Beanstalk, we design our STEM activities to reflect the real world’s complexity. By merging disciplines, we give learners of all ages the opportunity to see how knowledge works together, fostering a more comprehensive and engaging educational journey.

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Bernadette Johnson

Bernadette is a primary school teacher with years of experience in education and training. She has worked in various roles, including gymnastics coaching, teaching, and presenting STEM activities. Bernadette firmly believes that the biggest part of being "big" is knowing when to ask for help, as learning is always about seeking support and collaboration. She has a passion for discovering fun facts and diving into random topics that spark curiosity. Sharing these cool insights and learning alongside others is what drives her in both her teaching and personal life.