Students in Mr. Glover’s STEM class recently embarked on an exciting learning adventure through the Forest Grove Rover Mapping Mission, a project that combined science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a real-world application. Using Google Earth, students explored and mapped the Forest Grove Middle School campus before designing a detailed rover route that traveled past every building on campus. The project challenged students to think like engineers and scientists as they used satellite imagery, mapping tools, and data collection techniques to complete their mission.
Working in teams, students identified campus buildings, planned efficient navigation paths, measured distances, recorded observations, and analyzed route data. The lesson also strengthened critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and technology skills while helping students understand how scientists use similar tools to explore remote locations and gather important information.
Students took on specialized roles such as Rover Commander, Navigation Specialist, Data Analyst, and Mission Recorder, mirroring the teamwork required in real-world STEM careers. The project encouraged students to communicate their findings, defend their route decisions, and evaluate the effectiveness of their designs.
This engaging activity brought STEM concepts to life by allowing students to apply classroom learning in a meaningful and interactive way. Through creativity, collaboration, and innovative use of technology, students gained valuable experience while successfully completing their rover mapping mission.
