STEMVillage Summer Camp – Week 2, Day 2 Highlights

Today at STEMVillage, campers dove into the exciting world of engineering with a challenge to build Pneumatic Bridges. Using syringes and tubing, they explored how pneumatics and hydraulics can generate powerful motion—just like in real-world construction machinery. Each team had to design a bridge that could be lifted using air pressure and still support a specific amount of weight. This hands-on activity pushed students to think critically, collaborate under pressure, and test solutions through iterative problem solving.

In our next activity, campers created their own functional reading lamps. While designing and assembling their devices, they discovered how electricity flows through a circuit and learned the importance of proper material selection. We introduced concepts like light diffusion—why lampshades help soften light—and showed how science and design intersect in everyday items. Campers proudly lit their creations and shared how they could use them at home for nighttime reading or study.

We ended the day on a fun and engaging note with our Speaking Activity: “Presentations, but you pick from a basket.” Campers randomly drew topics and had to give short, impromptu presentations to their peers. From silly subjects to thought-provoking prompts, this activity built confidence, improved listening and public speaking skills, and gave everyone a chance to shine. We were so impressed with how supportive and encouraging the group was—it truly captured the leadership and growth mindset we aim to cultivate at STEMVillage.