STEMNET (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network)

May 2008

This term Mr. Stephenson and Mr. Hart’s STEMnet (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network) are exploring The Engineering of Large Structures.

Currently the students are building a 10ft model of the London Eye, discovering for themselves the difficulties of making a model of strength, flexibility, and of course one that is aesthetically pleasing. If that was hard on a 10ft model, the ladies had to see for themselves the challenge of building the 135m tall observatory wheel, still currently the largest in the world.

On Monday 19^th May, STEMnet visited the Eye, and took a flight. Our guide Ryan struggled to satisfy all of the girls’ questions, all of them showing such enthusiasm for the project. While they took in the accomplishment of such a feat of engineering, they were able to appreciate the beauty of London from a unique vantage point. Many were able to point out home, and school, while discovering many of London’s famous landmarks.

A fantastic time was had by all, so now it is back to the lab to finish off what may seem like a small task of the model, but mighty oaks from tiny acorns grow.