As part of their science unit in forces and motions, dual language students at Knowles Elementary were recently tasked with helping Firefly Aerospace engineers develop a solution to a potential problem in space using their knowledge of gravity, friction and magnets.
After several weeks of research, testing and following the engineering design process, students welcomed three bilingual Firefly Aerospace engineers to their classrooms, where they presented their projects in both English and Spanish. The students demonstrated how engineers can use magnets to prevent tools and equipment from floating away in space.
The visit also gave students a meaningful, real-world opportunity to strengthen their bilingualism by explaining their thinking and findings in Spanish.
Next, the students got to hear directly from the engineers, who shared about their roles and presented on some of the projects they work on every day, offering a glimpse into potential careers in science and engineering.
The collaboration was a clear demonstration of the Leander ISD Graduate Profile in action, helping students grow as skilled collaborators and communicators.
