STEM programs are on the rise. I feel that these types of programs are great for the community. It gets children learning about the new technology in our community. So many new employment fields are based on the Science, Math and Technology fields. This new generation needs to learn more about this. I am happy that the LINQ will be providing a program like this with the school district. Las Vegas needs more programs and activities for our children. 

This fall, the High Roller observation wheel at The LINQ Promenade – an open-air shopping, dining and entertainment district at the center of the Las Vegas Strip – launches a dynamic partnership with the Clark County School District (CCSD) to teach K-12 students about critical science, technology, engineering and mathematic (STEM) subjects in a thrilling way. In conjunction with the CCSD Community-Partnership Program, the new High Roller curricula not only incorporate the world’s tallest observation wheel into STEM education, but they also give students an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour.

Age-appropriate lesson plans designed for grades K-2, grades 3-5, grades 6-8 and grades 9-12 combine classroom instruction with field trips to the High Roller, where STEM subjects will be brought to life. The program broadens participating students’ understanding of targeted subjects by encouraging them to ask questions, brainstorm solutions, listen to and critique their peers and, finally, present their ideas clearly and compellingly.

“The High Roller is not only a world-class attraction, but it is also an astonishing marvel of modern engineering,” added Bob Morse, president of hospitality for Caesars Entertainment. “We are thrilled to use the world’s tallest observation wheel to ignite excitement about STEM subjects among our community classrooms—after all, they are our future engineers and designers.”

K-2 students will describe and model their favorite kind of Ferris wheel during the classroom portion of the lesson plan. Students in grades 3-5 will be asked to design a new attraction for the Las Vegas Strip that is safe, cost-effective and energy efficient. Students in grades 6-8 will study the sum forces acting upon the Ferris wheel that enable it to rotate continuously. Finally, high school students will focus on the full design of a Ferris wheel by creating models, safety protocols and full operation of the structure. Students in all grades will have the opportunity to ride the High Roller in person, after which they will have a chance to revise their classroom work based on observations made during the field trip.

“STEM subjects are a critical component of K-12 education,” explains Cheryl Wagner, coordinator, Clark County School District School-Community Partnership Program. “Providing students with engaging experiential activities is very helpful to teachers as they address Nevada Academic Content Standards. Working with the High Roller to create, and then implement, such exciting and experiential lessons with our students and teachers is a great example of how a community partner can play an important role in STEM education with CCSD.”

For more information or to book a field trip, call (702) 533-0593 or visit www.LINQ.com.