#MimioSTEMChallenge champion, Zohaib Syed of The city school (Milwaukee, WI) has brought STEM education to life with an extensive lesson plan that dives into the fascinating world of hydroponics and pH monitoring using Tower Garden and lab disks (MimioSTEM from Boxlight). Designed for high school students, this 4-6 week trip spans 20-30 class periods, immersing students in hands-on experiences and collaborative learning.
“We received so many amazing projects for our MimioSTEM challenge, but The City School's submission definitely stood out. “This is exactly the kind of project we come up with when we develop lessons and tutorials about our products,” he said. MimioSTEM Product Manager Hannah Olson. “Our goal is to empower schools to take what we provide, like our solutions and training, and use it as a launching pad for deeper learning experiences. “Throughout this project, Zohaib students gain so much real-world experience that they can take it far beyond the classroom.”
Read on to learn how you can implement a hydroponics project at your school and check out the rest of the #mimioSTEMchallenge presentations on our shipping gallery.
Weeks 1-2: Introduction to Hydroponics and pH Control
Zohaib's class began the adventure with an interesting overview and setup of the Tower Garden, setting the stage for an exploration of pH concepts and Labdiscs calibration. Going a step further, students delved into pH monitoring, buffering, and troubleshooting scenarios, improving their practical skills.
Weeks 3-4: Plant Growth and Varieties 
He excitement and energy continued as students learned about plant growth factors and light cycles, exploring various plant varieties suitable for hydroponics. In a hands-on growth monitoring and planting session, students planted seeds, tracked growth stages, and discussed nutrient solutions, fostering a deeper understanding of plant development.
Weeks 5-6: Benefits of Hydroponics and Project Reflection 
Zohaib ensured a well-rounded experience by spending time with his students researching the benefits of hydroponics. Students participated in lively class discussions and presentations on environmental and economic benefits. The final stretch involved reflection on the project, the creation of posters and enlightening presentations, summarizing the challenges faced and the lessons learned.
Benefits of hydroponics
Zohaib Syed's #mimioSTEMchallenge presentation highlighted the key benefits of hydroponics, emphasizing resource efficiency, faster growth, optimizing space, reducing pesticide use, and year-round cultivation. Students not only acquired practical skills but also developed critical thinking, creativity, problem solving and understanding of the design process.
Educational value
Zohaib Syed #mimioSTEMchallenge The presentation highlights the value of student exploration, experimentation, and reflection. The plan gently incorporated STEM disciplines, offering students a tangible application of scientific principles in the real world. The interdisciplinary approach increased environmental awareness and introduced Zohaib students to career possibilities in agriculture, environmental sciences and technology. Because of its multifaceted benefits, Zohaib has made hydroponics exploration and pH monitoring easier for two years in a row.
When notified that his submission was the Grand Prize winner, Zohaib responded, “Thank you so much for that wonderful news! I can't wait to share that with our high school students since they worked so hard on this project for the last two years!
The #MimioSTEMChallenge-winning expanded lesson plan is a testament to the enriching and transformative potential of MimioSTEM solutions. Using technology like the Labdisc all-in-one science lab, Zohaib Syed has made STEM education an exciting and meaningful journey for his class. Congratulations Zohaib on a winning innovation and exploration plan!
Looking to innovate your STEM education lessons? Explore our award-winning solutions, including MimioSTEM. Gonna www.boxlight.com.
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