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Beginner Guide to Waterloo Contest
by csaa_wp | January 14, 2025 | STEM | 0 Comments
As students develop fundamentals in programming, competition and challenge can help motivate and enhance student’s confidence. CSAA is a certified examination hall of many competitions from University of Waterloo of the Centre for Education of Mathematics and Computing (CEMC). Mathematics and computing contests from University of Waterloo are internationally recognized, designed by teams of expert mathematicians, computer scientists, and educators for students in Grades 5 to 12 in challenging their ability.
Contest CSAA offer:
Beaver Computing Challenge (BCC)
BCC is an online multiple-choice challenge aimed for those in grade 5-10 who are interested in computer science. This contest requires students to have basic computer science knowledge and experience, focused on helping students build interest toward computing and understanding the concept of computing through mathematical logic. The BCC is usually held in the month of November and only offered in the language of English. CSAA is a certified examination hall for the Beaver Computing Challenge with many years of experience in leading students to succeed at the BCC contest with our professional teachers and unique curriculum.
Pascal, Cayley, Fermat Contests
The Pascal, Cayley, Fermat Contests offer an unique platform for students to challenge their mathematics skills and explore mathematical problem-solving while developing their critical thinking abilities. It is designed for students in grade 9-11 with multiple-choice questions and complexity enhancing each grade for students to challenge throughout their high school years. The contest offers English and French copies.
Gauss Contests
The Gauss Contests is a great introduction of mathematics competition to students wishing to challenge their ability in grade 7-8. It focused on encouraging students in developing mathematics logics through engaging questions in a multiple-choices format, motivating students to a passion in math and developing confidence and curiosity to mathematics. The contest is in the language of English and French.
Fryer, Galois and Hypatia Contests
The Fryer, Galois and Hypatia Contests focused on mathematical problem-solving and communication skills, and required students to answer questions in a full-solution format. The contest is best for students with a stronger foundation in mathematics who want to challenge their communication skills in expressing their findings logically and clearly. They are designed for students in grade 9-11 to challenge throughout their high school years. The contest is in the language of English and French.
Euclid Contest
The Euclid Contest is a competition specialized for grade 12 students with deeper understanding in mathematics concepts. The contest includes the most complex and challenging questions among all contests, challenging students’ perseverance in mathematical problem-solving. The contest is formatted with a mix of short answer and full solution question, making it good practice for students developing effective communication and creativity. This contest is available in English and French.
Start with CSAA
CSAA provides students with the right resources and assistance in thriving through competition. We have many years of experience in fostering award-winning students, knowing deeply the struggle and need of students. Start your journey in STEM with CSAA, the only STEM education academy, providing you with the best resource for your children to grow.
Welcome to CSAA
by csaa_wp | January 14, 2025 | STEM | 0 Comments
CSAA (Canadian STEM and AI Academy) is an organization established in 2017 with over 7 years of experience, dedicated to providing quality STEM education to children aged 4-18, fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders. We have developed our programs to inspire children’s interest in STEM while building the skills they need to succeed in the future. CSAA values hands-on experience and follows the principle of teaching students according to their individual aptitudes. We enhance our resources every year to ensure we offer the best possible learning environment for our students. It is our mission to provide a safe and friendly space where students can learn and explore with confidence.
Our Teaching Style
CSAA has developed our own unique teaching style to empower children to learn independently, allowing their creativity and initiative to grow. We follow a class ratio of 1 teacher to 4 students, making sure all students receive full attention from teachers and the assistance they need to learn and grow. All our teachers and coaches have many years of experience in teaching, with a rich background in computer science, and a deep passion for inspiring young learners. Their expertise enables them to effectively guide students through complex STEM concepts, making learning engaging and motivating. Our curriculum is continuously updated every year to provide students with the most current and suitable education. We teach with patience and passion, motivating students to continuously explore, learn, and apply their knowledge in every area of their life. To address parents’ concerns about their child’s learning progress, we provide video updates and comments after each class to allow parents to track their children’s development, easing any concerns or questions.
Our Lessons
We provide various lessons for age groups between 4 and 18, including coding, robotics, and Tech and AI lessons for students to explore.
Coding Program:
Our coding programs use different learning applications as platforms to meet the interests and learning needs of different students. For the younger age group, we provide Scratch Jr. as the main learning platform to engage students in building an interest in STEM, inspire creativity, and help them develop problem-solving and computational skills. As students reach grade 4 and older, they can start challenging themselves with different programming languages such as Python and Java, learning to apply coding in various projects. As students develop confidence in programming, we offer many competitions to challenge their abilities and knowledge.
Robotics Program:
Our robotics lessons focus on learning about the construction and control of mobile robots through hands-on experience in building and
designing. We provide lessons on many platforms for different stages in robotics, aiming to cater to various age groups and skill levels.
Tech and AI Program:
We also provide Tech and AI lessons that approach the world of science through fun and engaging hands-on experiences, sparking students’ curiosity and creativity. CSAA offers a wide selection of lessons for students to choose from, helping them thrive in the world of STEM and developing the skills they need to shine bright like a star.
If you are struggling to choose the right lesson for your child, feel free to contact CSAA. Our professional team is happy to answer your questions and clear up any confusion or concerns. We are more than happy to assist you. CSAA also offers trial classes for new students to become familiar with our teaching style and explore their field of interest. Sign up now as limited spots are available.
All About Coding 101
by csaa_wp | January 14, 2025 | Coding | 0 Comments
What is Coding?
Coding is a process of writing demands for computers to execute in performing tasks, creating an unlimited possibilities for users to create, design and build through the computers. As the world has developed with AI and technology, coding has become one of the most important skills to develop in order to excel one’s career. Codes are written in different programming languages, each with its characteristics and purposes. They serve as instructions that help computers understand and follow. Coding has a variety of applications across different fields and industries. Some of the most common uses include software development in creating websites, apps or games, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in helping Ai process and manage information, data science and analytics in working with big data and robotics in making a robot function.
Popular Programming Languages
Java
Java is a high-level programming language mainly used in software development, such as developing mobile apps, web apps, desktop apps, games, cloud-based applications, and many more. It was designed by James Gosling and first appeared in May 1995, making it 29 years old as of 2025. Java has been a popular choice for developers due to its easy learning curve, high performance, and object-oriented nature. It is also free and platform-independent, without the need for special hardware to use it.
JavaScript
JavaScript is an object-oriented programming language of the web, mainly used for developing interactive software. It was invented by Brendan Eich in 1995. Java and JavaScript may sound related by their names; however, they are two completely different programming languages in their design and operation. Java code can run in a virtual machine and a browser, while JavaScript code only runs in a browser, making it used only in web development.
Python
Python is a high-level programming language capable of many purposes, created by Guido van Rossum in 1991. It is mainly used in software development and data analysis. Python is one of the easiest languages to learn, making it popular among non-skilled programmers across all kinds of fields and industries for different tasks, such as data research and organizing information. It is simple and easy to read, making it a great programming language for beginners.
C++
C++ is a high-level general-purpose programming language created by Bjarne Stroustrup in 1985. It was mainly used in developing complex software systems, such as game development, scientific computing, and many more. Many modern systems, such as VR software, movie productions, and search engines, are powered by C++ code, showing its importance in our everyday life. C++ is an object-oriented programming language, making it easier for beginners to learn how the code works with all data and its behavior in a single bundle called an “object.”
Coding with CSAA
CSAA provides coding lessons for all age groups to learn and explore. We offer Scratch lessons for students in JK to Grade 5, focusing on sequencing, conditional thinking, building critical thinking skills, and practicing problem-solving abilities. Scratch lessons also help children build a solid foundation in coding, preparing them for more advanced lessons.
CSAA offers Python and Java lessons for students from Grade 5 and up. Our unique teaching style, with a 1:4 class ratio, ensures that every student receives the resources and assistance they need to succeed. Our curriculum is continuously updated every year to provide students with the most current and suitable education.
Why Do We Value STEM Education?
by csaa_wp | December 13, 2024 | STEM | 0 Comments
CSAA provides STEM education to children aged 5-18 with lessons in math, coding, robotics, and more. We believe that STEM education helps children develop critical thinking skills, practice collaboration, and encourage problem-solving abilities that they can apply to real-life challenges. STEM education equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a world that is rapidly evolving with technology.
CSAA’s unique teaching style and curriculum help students gain a deep understanding of core subjects such as mathematics, science, and technology. This gives them the ability to view the world from a new perspective and improve their academic performance.
Robotics vs. Coding
Robotics and coding are closely related, both fostering an interest in STEM education and offering students valuable soft skills and knowledge. Robotics is often more suitable for younger children, as it is easier to get started with and engages them with building blocks and design elements. It is hardware-oriented, focusing on solving complex real-world interaction problems, and is based on the principles of mechanics and engineering. A systematic curriculum covers mechanics, sensor control, and software systems, requiring students to approach problems from a holistic perspective. As project complexity increases, students also develop teamwork and decision-making skills through collaboration in group projects.
On the other hand, programming is software-oriented and primarily focuses on computer science and algorithm design. Mathematics forms the foundation and expansion of programming, which has applications across various industries. Students can learn programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++, engaging in project-based learning through CSAA’s immersive approach. Advanced students can even challenge themselves by participating in competitions like CCC and USACO.
CSAA’s STEM Education Offerings
CSAA provides both robotics and coding lessons for students aged 4-18. Our professional and experienced teachers are committed to providing the highest quality STEM education to your children. With a class ratio of 1:4, our teachers can focus on customizing the right teaching style for each student.
Feel free to contact us for more information about our robotics and coding lessons!
CSAA’s VEX IQ Team Wins Another Championship!
by csaa_wp | December 12, 2024 | VEX IQ | 0 Comments
On November 30th, our new CSAA VEX IQ team 2522S, under Coach Joe’s guidance, achieved another victory with a first-place ranking and a first-place finish in the finals at the Saturday Bot Camp/Team 188 VEX IQ Robotics Competition. We are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and congratulate them on their hard work! At CSAA, we have been dedicated to refining our curriculum and teaching content for more than 7 years, nurturing and uplifting numerous STEM elites. Our mission is to provide high-quality STEM education to children, helping them develop the interests and skills necessary to become future leaders in their fields. We offer robotics and coding lessons designed to help your children build a strong foundational knowledge before diving into competitive robotics. All our teachers have a background in computer science and extensive experiences in teaching young children. CSAA is the ideal place to provide your children with the right STEM education.
What is the VEX IQ Robotics Competition?
VEX IQ Challenges are robotics competitions designed for students in elementary and middle schools. These competitions challenge students’ abilities to design, build, and program robots to complete various tasks. The competition is structured with local, regional, national, and world-level events, providing students with opportunities to demonstrate their skills on the global stage. It is an excellent opportunity for students to develop teamwork, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of STEM.
Why should your kids learn robotics?
Students received many takeaways from our robotic lessons. For example, robotics can help students build problem solving skills and develop critical thinking. It involved designing, building and programming, requiring the student’s ability in thinking outside of the box and learning to diagnose the issue and troubleshooting the software or hardware components. Hands on learning with physical components such as motors and sensors, engaged students in experiment, test, and iteration. Students are required to think critically about how different parts work together and often need to analyze and apply their knowledge in science when building their own project. CSAA’s unique curriculum opens the opportunities to students in working and thinking independently. Students often used their creativity and logical thinking in interpreting instructions by themselves with our professional teacher guiding them in observing and reflecting.