Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia's curriculum objectives.
π§ͺ Integration into Nova Scotia's Science Curriculum (Elementary and Secondary)
Elementary Level: Grades Pβ6
Students explore materials, energy, force, motion, and scientific inquiry, aligning with the curriculum's focus on understanding the natural and physical world. (Science Pβ6)
Secondary Level: Grades 7β12
The program supports learning outcomes in topics such as technological systems, physics (force, motion, and energy), and scientific literacy. Students apply engineering processes to optimize their vehicle designs, considering aerodynamics and material properties. (Grades 7β9 Science, Science 10, Physics 11, Physics 12, Technology Education)
π Integration into Nova Scotia's Mathematics Curriculum (Elementary and Secondary)
Elementary Level: Grades Pβ6
Measurement, number sense, geometry, and data management are applied during vehicle design and performance testing. (Mathematics Pβ6)
Secondary Level: Grades 7β12
Students calculate speed, acceleration, angles, and analyze race data using algebraic and statistical tools. This aligns with curriculum outcomes in patterns, functions, measurement, and data literacy. (Mathematics 7β9, Mathematics 10, Mathematics at Work 11/12, Pre-Calculus 11/12, Math Essentials)
π¨ Integration into Nova Scotia's Arts Curriculum (Visual Arts and Music)
Elementary and Secondary Levels:
Visual Arts: Students design car liveries, team branding, and presentation visuals, reinforcing principles of design, color, and visual storytelling. (Visual Arts Pβ12)
Music: The use of soundtracks or team jingles supports curriculum goals in composition and music appreciation.
(Music Pβ12)
π» Integration with ICT and Digital Skills
The program supports Nova Scotiaβs integration of Technology Education and Digital Literacy, which are embedded across all subjects. Students engage with CAD software, 3D modeling, data logging tools, and simulations. They also learn programming basics, design thinking, file management, and digital safety. (Technology Education 10β12, Digital Literacy Curriculum, Options and Opportunities [O2])
πΌ Integration into Career Education and Skilled Trades
Middle School: Grades 7β9
Encourages early career exploration through hands-on STEM activities and inquiry-based learning. (Exploring Technology, Integrated Science & Tech Courses)
High School: Grades 10β12
Students gain practical experience in design, fabrication, budgeting, and entrepreneurship through CTS-aligned courses. (Skilled Trades 10, Skilled Trades Co-Op, Business Innovation, Design Technology 11/12, Entrepreneurship 12)
π§© Interdisciplinary Integration
Students work in teams, applying concepts from science, math, tech, the arts, and business, reflecting real-world interdisciplinary learning.. Thus STEM Racing Canada enhances cross-curricular competencies such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity and innovation
π Conclusion
STEM Racing Canada offers a dynamic, project-based learning opportunity that integrates seamlessly with Nova Scotiaβs 2025 curriculum. By blending academic content with career readiness and 21st-century competencies, this program equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in STEM fields and beyond.
π Consolidated List of Nova Scotia Curriculum Areas & Course Codes Referenced
Science:
Science Pβ6
Science 7β9
Science 10
Physics 11
Physics 12
Technology Education 10β12
Mathematics:
Mathematics Pβ6
Mathematics 7β9
Mathematics 10
Mathematics Essentials 11/12
Mathematics at Work 11/12
Pre-Calculus 11
Pre-Calculus 12
Arts:
Visual Arts Pβ12
Music Pβ12
ICT / Technology:
Digital Literacy (Grades Pβ9, integrated)
Technology Education 10β12
Options and Opportunities (O2 Program)
Career and Skilled Trades Education:
Exploring Technology (Middle School)
Skilled Trades 10
Skilled Trades Co-op
Design Technology 11/12
Entrepreneurship 12
Business Innovation
Options and Opportunities (O2 Program)