Curriculum & Online Resources » STEM Programs

STEM Programs

STEM Education

At IMSA North, we're on a mission to spark transformation one mind at a time. Our vision is to inspire generations through a STEM-focused education, equipping students with the tools to conquer tomorrow's challenges. Our dedicated science teachers and administrators are here to guide and encourage students to take part in exhilarating STEM events that align with our mission and vision. Together, we're shaping a brighter future through the power of knowledge and innovation. Join us on this incredible journey! 
 
 
 

 Science Fairs

CONSEF is driven by a powerful mission: to ignite widespread awareness in STEM education. We firmly believe that every student, regardless of age, background, or interests, has the potential to shine in STEM subjects. Why? Because at the heart of STEM education lies the cultivation of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and real-world connections.

Similarly, IMSA North's mission echoes this transformative spirit. We aim to shape communities one mind at a time, engaging students with the natural world and inspiring future generations through a dynamic STEM-focused education. By preparing our students for the challenges of tomorrow, we're nurturing a legacy of innovation and achievement.

Guided by our dedicated science teachers and administrators, we encourage students to participate in exciting STEM events actively. Through these endeavors, we align with our shared vision and mission, fostering a culture of growth, learning, and progress. Join us as we embark on this journey of exploration and excellence!

 
 

School Science Fair

For our 4th to 12th graders, participation isn't just an option – it's a must! The process involves crafting captivating science fair projects that showcase their ingenuity and dedication. The culmination of their efforts comes to life at the in-school science fair, where they proudly present their findings and insights. But the journey doesn't end there! Following the meticulous judging and caucusing process, we're thrilled to announce that 25 remarkable high school students and 25 outstanding middle school students earn nominations for the CONSEF preselection process.  Moreover, a spotlight shines on three exceptional students from each grade as they receive nominations for the Central Indiana Regional Science and Engineering Fair.
 
 

CONSEF (Concept Science and Engineering Fair - STEM Exposition)

 
 

CONSEF (Concept Schools Science and Engineering Fair) and STEM EXPO are prominent STEM events hosted by Concept Schools, a Chicago-based non-profit organization specializing in charter management and consulting. These events offer opportunities for students in grades 5th through 12th across the Midwest to showcase their talents and achievements in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

CONSEF provides a platform for students to present their innovative science and engineering projects, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. STEM EXPO, on the other hand, emphasizes a broader range of STEM disciplines and projects, encouraging students to explore various aspects of these fields.

These events not only promote STEM education but also allow students to engage with like-minded peers, professionals, and educators, enhancing their understanding and passion for STEM subjects. They contribute to the development of critical thinking, collaboration, and presentation skills, all of which are essential for success in the modern world.

 
 
 
Project/Poster Session
 
 The mission of the Concept Science & Engineering Fair is to increase public awareness in science, math and engineering. We believe that every student has the potential to shine in science, math, and engineering; therefore, we encourage every student from public, charter, private or home schools to share research/project summaries through this unique platform.
STEM Expo / Demonstration
 
 CS Stem Exposition is an event designed to encourage students to showcase the results of their stem studies and their science work. The purpose of the exposition is to apply knowledge and understanding of science, technology, engineering and math to conduct in-depth, “real-world” investigations and offer another venue for students to practice their presentation skills.
Design Contest
 
 
The Design Contest is an art competition for CONSEF. The entries of top ten finalists will be displayed at CONSEF. The winning design will be printed on program booklets of the fair. 
 
 
 
 

Regional Science Fair

 Regional Science Fair – CIRSEF (Central Indiana Regional Science and Engineering Fair) is sponsored by the Science Education Foundation of Indiana (SEFI) and hosted by Marian University on the first or second Saturday of March. It is open to 4th through 12th grade students. Each school can nominate only 3 students per grade. After the judging process, top 2-3 students from each grade can be advanced to the state science fair from the regional science fair.
 
 
 
 

The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)

 There are two types of International science fair:
ISEF is an annual science fair in the United States,] and is owned and administered by the Society for Science & the Public. Every year, tens of millions of students participate in science fairs around the globe but only about 1,800 earn the right to compete for nearly $5 million awards bestowed each May at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). https://www.societyforscience.org/isef/
Each state and country nominates the students to the ISEF. State of Indiana is represented by 12-13 high school students at the Regeneration International Science and Engineering Fair.
 
 
 
State Science Fair
 
 Twelve regional science fairs nominate 2 students from each grade level to the Indiana State Science Fair. Indiana State Science Fair is named “Hoosier Science and Engineering Fair – HSEF” and sponsored by Science Education Foundation of Indiana, Inc. The state science fair is held either on the last Saturday of March or the first Saturday of April. Top 3 students are advanced from state science fair to International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) from 9th – 12th graders.
 
 
 
GENIUS Olympiad International Science fair
 
 GENIUS Olympiad is an international high school project competition about environmental issues. It is founded and organized by Terra Science and Education and hosted by the Rochester Institute of Technology. GENIUS Olympiad will host projects in five general disciplines with an environmental focus. https://geniusolympiad.org/
CONSEF nominates two students and CIRSEF/HSEF nominates 1-2 students to the Genius Olympiad each year.
 
 
 
 

 PLTW Engineering Courses

Our students in grades K-4 and 8-12 have the incredible opportunity to engage in engineering through Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering Class. This elective is more than just a class – it's a journey that empowers students to embrace the role of an engineer. Hands-on activities are at the core of our approach, fostering critical thinking and collaborative skills as students tackle real-world challenges head-on.

The beauty of this program lies in its versatility. The skills acquired in PLTW Courses are not confined to a single path; they're tools that can be applied in any career field our students choose to pursue. From problem-solving to teamwork, innovation to creativity, our students are gaining the skills to shape their futures.

https://www.pltw.org/our-programs/pltw-engineering
 
PLTW Offering Courses
 
 
IMSA North will offer the following three engineering courses during the 2020-2021 school year:
  • Introduction to Engineering Design
  • Principles of Engineering
  • Civil Engineering and Architecture
 
 
 
 
 

 Robotics

xploring Robotics at IMSA North! Our students are diving into the world of technology and innovation. From 3rd to 8th graders in our VEX IQ Club, to high schoolers in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Elective Course, they're building, programming, and refining robots.  Practice happens during club time, fostering teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Get ready to witness their engineering journey unfold
 
 

Vex IQ for Elementary and Middle School Students

 IMSA North offers VEX IQ club activity for 3rd – 8th graders. Club members will participate in 3-5 regional competitions before the state tournament.  Please contact the coaches for meeting dates and times.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

FTC for High School Students

 IMSA North offers the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) elective course and club for high school kids. Students work on building and programming a robot five days during the class time, and also make practice during the club time. The students will participate in minimum 3 regional/league tournaments to be able to advance to state tournaments. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Math Competitions

Our students in the Middle and High school will be competing nationally against other schools, showing off their Math Skills.
 
 

MathCON

 MathCON is an innovative mathematics platform, including a competition series and educational resources and opportunities for students and educators, developed to enhance mathematics education. Last year, students from our school competed against over 500 other students in Chicago.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Indiana State Mathematics Contest

 Math teachers encourage their students to participate in State Math competition which is organized by The Indiana Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM).
STEM Programs at a Glance

Science Fairs
  • School Science Fair
  • CONSEF
    • Project/Poster Session
    • STEM Expo / Demonstration
    • Design Contest
  • Regional Science Fair
  • State Science Fair
  • International Science Fair
 
PLTW Engineering Courses
  • Introduction to Engineering Design
  • Principles of Engineering
  • Civil Engineering and Architecture
 
PLTW Gateway Course
  • Automation & Robotics
 
PLTW Biomedical Science Courses
  • Principles of Biomedical Science
  • Human Body Systems
  • Medical Intervention 
 
PLTW Launch
  • Grades K-4 
 
Robotics
  • Vex IQ for Elementary and Middle School Students
  • VexV5 for Middle School
  • FTC for High School Students
 
 
Math Competitions
  • MathCON
  • Math Kangaroo