Quebec Curriculum Connections to the STEM Racing Canada Program
STEM Racing Canada is a hands-on, interdisciplinary educational program 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 aligns naturally with Quebec’s curriculum, particularly in the areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, the arts, and entrepreneurship.
🧪 Integration into the Science Program
Elementary: Grades 1 to 6
Students explore material properties, forces, motion, and energy, which aligns with science learning outcomes, particularly observation, prediction, and experimentation.
Secondary: Secondary 1 to 5
The program complements general science and physics course competencies. Students apply concepts such as Newton’s laws of motion, kinetic energy, friction, and aerodynamics through vehicle design. In Secondary 4/5 Physics, the program deepens analysis of motion, speed, acceleration, and energy efficiency.
📐 Integration into the Mathematics Program
Students apply math in real-world contexts: speed calculations (speed = distance ÷ time), unit conversions, proportional modeling, data collection and representation (graphs, averages, ranges). In secondary school, students strengthen problem-solving, geometry (car shapes and angles), and simple function analysis (distance-time relationships).
💻 Technology and Digital Competency Integration (ICT)
The program supports outcomes in ICT (information and communication technologies), integrated across all subjects in Quebec. Students use digital tools (CAD software, 3D printers, simulations) to model, test, and improve their vehicles. Skills in programming, 3D modeling, file management, and the safe and responsible use of technology are also developed.
🎨 Integration into the Arts (Visual Arts, Music, Drama)
Students apply visual arts skills to create logos, posters, visual presentations, and aesthetic car designs. They can also create soundtracks, jingles, or promotional videos for their projects, supporting artistic expression in music and media arts. Oral presentations, skits, or live demonstrations may be integrated into drama.
💼 Business Studies and Entrepreneurship
In modules such as Entrepreneurship, students plan projects, manage budgets, seek funding, develop branding, and work as a team. Students practice persuasive communication, project planning, marketing materials development, and digital media use to reach their goals.
🧩 Interdisciplinary Integration and General Competencies
The program reinforces Quebec curriculum cross-curricular competencies: collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and communication. It offers an authentic project-based learning environment where students take on different roles (engineer, designer, project manager, etc.) to achieve a common goal.
🎓 Conclusion
STEM Racing Canada effectively aligns with the 2025 Quebec curriculum requirements, both at the elementary and secondary levels. It promotes active, engaging, and relevant learning while building essential 21st-century skills. By integrating science, math, technology, arts, and entrepreneurship, the program provides Quebec students with a complete, stimulating educational experience that prepares them for post-secondary studies or future careers.
📘 Consolidated List of Quebec Course Codes Referenced
Science:
Science and Technology Secondary 4: 555444
Applied Science and Technology Secondary 4: 557444
Physics Secondary 5: 553504
Mathematics:
Cultural, Social, and Technical Secondary 4: 563414
Natural Sciences Secondary 4: 565426
Cultural, Social, and Technical Secondary 5: 563504
Natural Sciences Secondary 5: 565506
Technology and Digital Competency Integration (ICT):
Technology Secondary 1: 555104
Technology Secondary 2: 555204
Technology Secondary 3: 555304
Visual Arts:
Visual Arts Secondary 4: 668402
Music:
Music Secondary 4: 669402
Drama:
Drama Secondary 4: 670402
Business Studies and Entrepreneurship:
Entrepreneurship Secondary 4: 554404
Financial Education Secondary 5: 573504