Alberta Curriculum Connections to the STEM Racing Canada Program

STEM Racing Canada is a hands-on, multidisciplinary educational initiative designed for students aged 9 to 19. Participants design, build, and race miniature Formula 1-style cars using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) tools. The program supports the development of skills in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, the arts, and entrepreneurship, aligning with Alberta's curriculum objectives.

🧪 Integration into Alberta's Science Curriculum (Elementary and Secondary)
Elementary Level: Students explore material properties, forces, and motion, aligning with the Alberta science curriculum's emphasis on understanding the physical world. (Science K–6)

Secondary Level: The program complements the secondary science curriculum by engaging students in technological design, mechanical systems analysis, and scientific experimentation. Students apply the engineering design process to create and optimize their vehicles, considering principles such as aerodynamics and material strength. (Science 10 [SCN10], Physics 20 [PHY20], Physics 30 [PHY30])

📐 Integration into Alberta's Mathematics Curriculum (Elementary and Secondary)
Elementary Level: Activities involving measurement, proportional reasoning, and data analysis are integrated during the design and testing phases of the cars, supporting the elementary mathematics curriculum's focus on numeracy and problem-solving skills. (Mathematics K–6)

Secondary Level: Students utilize mathematical formulas to calculate speed, acceleration, and analyze vehicle performance, directly aligning with the secondary mathematics curriculum's objectives in algebra, geometry, and data management. (Mathematics 10C [MAT1791], Mathematics 20-1 [MAT2791], Mathematics 30-1 [MAT3791])

🎨 Integration into Alberta's Arts Curriculum (Visual Arts and Music)
Elementary and Secondary Levels: Students enhance their creativity by designing the aesthetics of their cars, creating logos, and developing visual presentations, aligning with the visual arts curriculum's emphasis on artistic expression and design principles. (Art 10 [ART10], Art 20 [ART20], Art 30 [ART30]). Incorporating jingles or soundtracks for presentations offers an opportunity to integrate music education, fostering an understanding of musical elements and composition. (Music 10 [MUS10], Music 20 [MUS20], Music 30 [MUS30])

💻 Integration with ICT and Digital Skills
The program supports the learning outcomes of Alberta’s ICT (Information and Communication Technology) curriculum, which is integrated across all subject areas. Students use digital tools (such as CAD software, 3D printers, and simulations) to model, test, and improve their vehicles. They also develop skills in programming, 3D modeling, file management, and the safe and responsible use of technology. (Career and Technology Studies: Computer Science [CSC], Design Studies [DES])

💼 Integration into Alberta's Career and Technology Foundations (CTF) and Career and Technology Studies (CTS) Programs
Middle School: The program aligns with the CTF curriculum by encouraging students to explore interests and career possibilities through hands-on projects that integrate various subject areas, including technology and entrepreneurship. (Career and Technology Foundations [CTF])

Secondary Level: STEM Racing Canada supports the CTS curriculum by providing practical experiences in areas such as design studies, fabrication, and business. Students develop business plans, seek sponsorships, and manage budgets, reflecting real-world applications of entrepreneurial skills. (Career and Technology Studies: Entrepreneurship [ENT], Design Studies [DES], Fabrication Studies [FAB])

🧩 Interdisciplinary Integration
The program fosters the development of cross-curricular competencies such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Students work in teams to design, build, and present their projects, integrating knowledge and skills from science, technology, engineering, mathematics, the arts, and entrepreneurship.

🎓 Conclusion
STEM Racing Canada seamlessly integrates into Alberta's education system by offering an active and interdisciplinary learning approach. It enables students to develop essential 21st-century competencies while reinforcing their understanding across multiple subject areas. This program presents a valuable opportunity for Alberta schools to enrich their educational offerings and prepare students for future challenges.

📘 Consolidated List of Alberta Course Codes Referenced

Science:
Science K–6
Science 10 (SCN10)
Physics 20 (PHY20)
Physics 30 (PHY30)

Mathematics:
Mathematics K–6
Mathematics 10C (MAT1791)
Mathematics 20-1 (MAT2791)
Mathematics 30-1 (MAT3791)

Visual Arts:
Art 10 (ART10)
Art 20 (ART20)
Art 30 (ART30)

Music:
Music 10 (MUS10)
Music 20 (MUS20)
Music 30 (MUS30)

Information and Communication Technology (ICT):
Career and Technology Studies: Computer Science (CSC)
Career and Technology Studies: Design Studies (DES)

Career and Technology Foundations (CTF):
Career and Technology Foundations (CTF)

Career and Technology Studies (CTS):
Entrepreneurship (ENT)
Design Studies (DES)
Fabrication Studies (FAB)