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Middle School Level 2 Program
Erica, grade 8
What our students say
I've been in this program for about three years. I really enjoy it because there's a lot of activities and things we do that you cannot get in school. They bring in speakers, which I love, that come from different jobs like architects and veterinarians. I really personally enjoy it because it gives us an opportunity to ask questions to those people. I've also made a lot of friends. I really enjoy the groups we've come through. I've met people from different grades that I normally would have never met, but now I'm best friends with. I love participating and competing in events we have, like KAHOOTS, and the cooking baking event. That was a lot of fun, and we got to experience what it would be like as a cafeteria manager to multiply the doses of food.
Program Overview
Our Level 2 Middle School Program is designed to introduce students to advanced STEAM concepts using real-world projects and interdisciplinary skills across math, science, ELA, and history. This program allows students to dive deeper into the practical applications of STEAM topics, fostering creative and critical thinking alongside our foundational values. We encourage students to predict scientific outcomes using academic vocabulary, helping them build essential problem-solving skills.
Project Based Learning and Interdisciplinary Approach
Our project-based activities push students to draw conclusions based on knowledge and skills from multiple disciplines, including mathematics, science, ELA, and history. Through an innovative STEAM approach, we integrate interdisciplinary learning, encouraging members to think broadly and critically about real-world problems. The knowledge they gain has a direct impact not only on their middle school science and math courses but also on future secondary school coursework. Members actively explore, analyze, evaluate, and create innovative solutions, promoting collaboration and teamwork within the STEM Club.
Design Thinking and Engineering Approach
We incorporate Design Thinking and the Engineering Design Process into our curriculum, encouraging members to address challenges with empathy and purpose. By viewing problems through the lens of those directly affected, students are driven to create meaningful solutions. In some STEAM competitions, members will design prototypes early in the process, allowing them to be tested and refined for practical application.
Academic Enrichment and Curiosity Building
Our academic enrichment activities are designed to influence curiosity in math, science, and reading skills. We foster exploration and discovery by introducing members to the world around them in a fun, hands-on manner. This approach aims to inspire a lifelong passion for learning while reinforcing academic skills.
Team Building and Collaboration
Our enrichment activities are designed to spark curiosity in math, science, and reading. Through team-based STEM projects, members become accountable for their learning, with a focus on how STEM concepts can be applied across other subjects like ELA and Social Studies. These activities challenge students to think creatively and approach various challenges with new perspectives.
Middle School Engagement and Career Inspiration
TFO works to inspire middle school students by facilitating engaging, relevant, and tangible exposure to technical career possibilities. We aim to attract BIPOC students to STEAM fields, recognizing the gap in exposure to STEM professionals in their communities. Our programs address this disparity by introducing students to technical careers and providing personal development support, including peer relations, conflict resolution, positive social-emotional health, confidence-building, and academic success.
Soft Skills Development and Academic Support
Our classroom activities equip students with essential soft skills and self-esteem. TFO coaching staff lead sessions on stress management, classroom behavior strategies, self-inventories, and the importance of a positive self-concept. In addition to these activities, coaches provide daily homework assistance, with a particular focus on math, science, and ELA, ensuring that members are fully supported in their academic journey.
Support Our Mission
Your contribution can make a profound difference. By donating to TFO, you help us continue to provide essential resources and opportunities to students who need them most. Join us in our mission to transform lives and build a brighter future for all. Donate today and be a part of our impactful work.
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