I currently teach computer science to K–5 students and love finding easy-to-access materials for hands-on projects. One of the most engaging so far has been a KEVA Block Challenge, an activity that turns abstract STEM ideas into something students can touch, build, and explore. This hands-on project is a fun and engaging example of authentic learning experiences with technology in …
Authentic Learning Experiences with Technology in K-5
Like most teachers, I believe connected experiences help students find meaning in what they learn. I want kids to think deeply and understand why learning matters. As a K–5 public school technology teacher who teaches every student, I often face a challenge: creating relevant, engaging lessons that feel real. What does authentic learning with technology look like? My experience teaching …
STEM Teaching Tools
When I search for STEM teaching tools, I expect to find STEM activities and lessons. These are helpful tools that I can implement in the classroom in a short period of time. I want intuitive resources to help me teach science, technology, engineering, and math in an awesome way. Not just STEM stuff, but STEAM stuff, too! This post aims …
The Power of Storytelling in STEM
This post includes six free, ready-to-use STEM storytelling resources for educators, including GRASPS scenarios and printable activities. Jump to the six free STEM storytelling resources or keep reading to learn how storytelling can make science, technology, engineering, and math more relatable and engaging. The power of storytelling in STEM lies in its ability to spark curiosity, build connections, and inspire …
Long Term STEM Projects
My goal with this post is to add some clarity to the array of STEM tools and resources online. Specifically, long-term stem projects may be underrepresented, underutilized, and within your reach! Read on for some of the elements and benefits of long-term STEM projects. What is STEM? STEM refers to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. STEM education takes place at …
Upcycling Ideas for Students
Upcycling ideas for students offer a fun and meaningful project-based approach for students to learn about their community and the environment. Opportunities to upcycle can easily be found at school or home and are an excellent fit for student creativity. The products that students can create by upcycling are essentially limitless. What is Upcycling? Upcycling is a process of transforming …
Paper Helicopter Experiment
This post uses affiliate links that may earn VistaThink a commission at no additional cost to you. Read more in the Private Policy. Thanks for your support! A paper helicopter experiment is a fantastic hands-on, and low-budget way for students to explore cause and effect relationships in experimental design. These models offer teachers easy STEM activities with paper and generate …
Engineering Design Process Example
The goal of this blog post is to provide educators with a step-by-step engineering design process (EDP) example with a STEM focus. STEM is an acronym for the academic areas of science, technology, engineering, and math. These lesson resources support both virtual and traditional brick-and-mortar learning. The target student group ranges from about fourth grade to seventh. This example lesson …
Water Tank Engineering with Newspaper, Part 2
MYP Design Subject Overview In the prequel to this follow-up post, I began to reflect on my first experiences in MYP Design with Year 1 students (grade six). I chose this topic because I thought that the information would be helpful for MYP Design teachers–especially those new to MYP like I was. Also, if you teach STEM/STEAM, I believe there …
Water Tank Engineering with Newspaper, Part 1
MYP Design Cycle – Getting Started In July 2015, I introduced my sixth-grade students to their first design unit: engineering a water tank from newspaper. Middle school design teachers and colleagues Jessie M. and Angie U. created the first version of the unit. This hands-on challenge served as an engaging introduction to the MYP Design Cycle and emphasized problem-solving through …