A classroom at Independence Primary School recently became a hub of creativity, collaboration, and leadership as weeks of cross-grade learning came to a meaningful conclusion. On Friday, January 9, a visit to Michele Crum’s gifted fourth-grade class highlighted an innovative project that brought fourth graders and first graders together through music, coding, and teamwork.
The project began with fourth grade students surveying first graders from Meghan Zale and Holly Presot’s classes to learn about their interests and abilities related to musical instruments. Using that feedback, the fourth grade STEAM students applied the STEM Design Process — brainstorming, planning, designing, coding, and building adaptive musical instruments tailored specifically for their younger peers.
After several weeks of collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation, first-grade students returned to test and evaluate the finished prototypes in the adaptive instrument showcase. During the showcase fourth graders served as mentors, guiding first graders as they explored foundational technology concepts while modeling leadership and collaboration. Fourth-grade students learned block coding through MIT’s Scratch website, built functional circuits using Makey Makey boards and alligator clips, and constructed instrument prototypes using recycled materials. The results were fully functional, student-designed musical instruments made from cardboard, balloons, foil, and copper tape—allowing first grade learners to touch, interact with, and create music using coded melodies, rhythms, and individual notes.
More than a lesson in coding and electrical circuits, the experience emphasized communication, creativity, and real-world problem-solving across grade levels. This hands-on learning opportunity was made possible through equipment acquired through the Ohio STEM Learning Network STEM Classroom Grant, funded by Battelle, further enriching the experience and expanding access to innovative STEAM instruction.
This collaborative effort reflects Independence Local Schools’ commitment to innovative instruction—where students not only learn advanced skills but also grow as leaders, collaborators, and creative thinkers from an early age.
