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Make learning fun with this Thanksgiving STEAM challenge in which students design their very own Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon! An excellent companion activity to the fall read aloud book Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet.

Not only do students design the balloon, but as an added challenge they must create a device to keep it floating in the air!

Students plan, design, and execute their own ideas. After they have completed their activity, there is time for reflection on what worked and what didn't.

After the balloons are created, have a classroom Thanksgiving Day Parade and a contest to see who made the best balloon!
Included Extension Activity Ideas:
Included with this resource are two extension ideas to add technology to the challenge. The first one is to attach the balloon to a robot and code a parade path. The other extension activity is to use a green screen (Do Ink App) to video the parade balloons and add a photo of New York in the background.

Aligns with NGSS and Common Core.
Includes:

Teacher and Student Instructions

Student Planning Pages

Student Reflection Pages

STEAM Journal

Contest Voting Cards and Award

NGSS and Common Core Standards

Easel Activity Version for Distance Learning

Easel Activity:
This activity comes with Digital Version using TpT Digital with Google Classroom for Distance Learning.
Material List:

Balloons

Tape

Decorations Such as Ribbons or String

Paper

Straws

Popsicle Sticks

Markers

Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet (recommended)

Follow us! ALIGNS TO NGSS K-2-ETS1-2 Engineering Design
Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how

the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given

problem.
K-2-ETS1-3 Engineering Design
Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.
3-5-ETS1-2 Engineering Design
Generate and compare multiple solutions to a problem based on

how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the

problem.
3-5-ETS1-3 Engineering Design
Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

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Balloons Over Broadway Thanksgiving READ ALOUD STEM™ Activity

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Have a classroom Thanksgiving Day Parade! Make learning fun with this Thanksgiving STEAM challenge in which students design their very own Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon! An excellent companion activity to the fall read aloud book Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet.Not only do students design ...

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Students will work in small groups to complete this physics challenge. They will investigate speed by choosing different classroom surfaces to test. They will roll a ball on different surfaces and record their speed (slow, medium, fast). Just like in the story, they will learn that a bumpy, rough surface or a smooth surface will change how an object moves.

As a class, discuss which surface will create the fastest or slowest speed. Once students roll their ball across the different surfaces, they will record their findings. Then, challenge them to change the direction of the ball.

What things get in the way and change how objects move? Students will use blocks (wooden planks, dominoes, place value blocks, building bricks, etc.) to build a structure that will change the direction of their ball.

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Best STEM Read Alouds for Teaching Push and Pull in Kindergarten - Carly and Adam

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Great read aloud selections help to engage young learners and introduce them to interesting topics. This is particularly true in kindergarten when teachers gather students together to listen to stories each day. This post will share two great children's books that support STEM learning

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In the story, So Many Sounds by Tim McCanna, students explore how there are many sounds to be heard. Some sounds are made by objects or things outside. Sound is all around us.
In this STEM Challenge, build a device that will help us communicate with a partner over a distance.
This STEM Challenge aligns to NGSS Standards for First Grade NGSS Physical Science 1-PS4-4 but can be used in 1st-3rd grade.
Material List:

So Many Sounds by Tim McCanna

Paper

Pencils

Scissors and Tape

String

Recyclable Materials (ex. plastic cups, cardboard, different sized containers)

Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student STEM Journal

Student Instructions

STEM Activity

Vocabulary Words (Sound, Device, Communicate)

Student Reflection Sheet

Rubric

TpT Easel Version

The Engineering Design Process:
During the Explore part of the lesson, Students plan, design, and execute their own ideas. They follow the six step Engineering Design Process: Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Experiment, Improve.
Aligns NGSS 1-PS4-4
Use tools and materials to design and build a device that uses light or sound to solve the problem of communicating over a distance.

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So Many Sounds 1st Grade Physical Science Activity Communication STEM Challenge

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Teach about sound First Grade Physical Science Activity!In the story, So Many Sounds by Tim McCanna, students explore how there are many sounds to be heard. Some sounds are made by objects or things outside. Sound is all around us.In this STEM Challenge, build a device that will help us communicate ...

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We are surrounded by sounds every day. Sounds are caused by vibrations, or the rapid back-and-forth motion of an object. These vibrations are transferred to the air molecules right next to the object, which bump into the molecules next to them, and so on, until the vibration reaches our ear (Fig 1).

Sometimes, these vibrations are obvious because they are big enough to see. For example, when you pluck a rubber band, you can see it move back and forth (or if you turn up the bass on a stereo with a large subwoofer, you may be able to see the speaker move). However, for the majority of sounds we hear every day, these vibrations are too small to see. For example, when you knock on a door, even though you can hear a sound, you can't see the door vibrate at all. Sometimes you can still feel these vibrations even though you can't see them. For example, if you place the palm of your hand on a door while someone else knocks on it, you will feel the knock. You can also feel your vocal cords vibrate if you put your hand on your throat while you talk!

In this lesson plan, students will first explore how sounds cause vibrations using vibrations that are easy to see (with rubber bands). Then they will explore other vibrations that are harder to see, like knocking or talking. Finally, they will make their own sound and explain what vibrates and causes the sound.

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Sound and Vibrations 1: Rubber Band Guitar | Lesson Plan

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We are surrounded by sounds every day. Sounds are caused by vibrations, or the rapid back-and-forth motion of an object. These vibrations are transferred to the air molecules right next to the object, which bump into the molecules next to them, and so on, until the vibration reaches our ear (Fig 1).

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Students love completing this winter STEM challenge! Students learn about the history of dog sled racing by reading about the great serum race to Nome, Alaska in 1925.

After learning about the history of dog sled racing students design, build, and test a dog sled using only the materials provided. The dog sled will be tested based on two variables (speed and being able to carry the most cargo). This is a fun and engaging activity for students to work on during a novel study of Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner or after reading Akiak: A Tale from the Iditarod by Robert J. Blake!

This activity helps students develop critical thinking and engineering skills. Students plan, design, and execute their own ideas. After they have completed their activity, there is time for reflection on what worked and what didn't.

Aligns with NGSS(Next Gen Science Standards).
Material List: Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student Instructions

Student Planning Pages

Student Reflection Sheet

Reading Passage and Questions

NGSS Standards

TpT Digital Version for Distance Learning with Google Classroom

Digital Activity:
To use Easel for Distance Learning, select "Open in Easel" on this listing.
What teachers are saying about this winter stem project! "This was one of the best storybook STEM projects I've done with my third graders. We used it after reading Stone Fox. There weren't any materials I had to buy outside of what was on my shelves already and the kids loved the twist of earning points for the WIN and for the CARGO. I let them improve their sleds for a second round the next day, and we had so much fun with this 3-day event." - Alyson S. "We used this for third grade after reading Balto. It worked great!" "This is just what I needed for my Stone Fox unit. Great way for students to show his or her creativity!" - Connie W. "Absolutely the best STEM we have done all year. Great tie in to our Iditarod study as well as a great connection to our NGSS standards." - Julie B. Follow us! Other STEM Activities that Teachers and Students love! Winter STEM Challenge Bundle January Winter STEM Challenge Bundle Valentine's Day STEM Activity Bundle: 5 Activities included March STEM Activity Bundle: Includes 4 Activities

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Build a Dog Sled Winter STEM Challenge! Students love completing this winter STEM challenge! Students learn about the history of dog sled racing by reading about the great serum race to Nome, Alaska in 1925. After learning about the history of dog sled racing students design, build, and test a dog s...

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Teach about slope, ramps, potential energy, and kinetic energy with this NGSS Aligned 4th Grade STEM Activity! Perfect for a Science Lab.
In the story Roll, Slope, and Slide, we can see the way familiar objects move. We see how ramps can impact the way things move.

In this 4th Grade STEM Challenge can use ramps to explore the speed of different objects.

Students use the idea of ramps to create their own roller coaster using simple materials. They test their roller coaster to observe the speed and energy of a marble as it moves the design.

This STEM Challenge aligns to NGSS Standards for Fourth Grade NGSS Physical Science 4-PS3-1 but can be used in 3rd-5th grade.
Material List:

paper plates (sturdy)

tape

toilet paper and paper towel rolls

plastic or paper cups

paper

marbles

Roll, Slope, and Slide by Michael Dahl

Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student STEM Journal

Student Instructions

STEM Activity

Vocabulary Words (Kinetic Energy, Potential Energy, Energy, Speed, Ramp)

Student Reflection Sheet

Rubric

TpT Easel Version

4-PS3-1
Use evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object.

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4th Grade STEM Activity Roller Coaster Engineering Roll, Slope, and Slide

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Teach about slope, ramps, potential energy, and kinetic energy with this NGSS Aligned 4th Grade STEM Activity! Perfect for a Science Lab.In the story Roll, Slope, and Slide, we can see the way familiar objects move. We see how ramps can impact the way things move.In this 4th Grade STEM Challenge can...

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FREE PDF Download - (5) Paper Circuit Project Templates

A paper circuit is a low-voltage electronic circuit that is created on paper or cardboard using conductive copper tape, LEDs and a power source such as a coin-cell battery. Creating paper circuits is a good way to teach the basics of electricity and how circuits function. In addition to being educational, they can also be a fun makerspace project that helps to bring artwork and paper craft to life. By adding sensors, buzzers and motors to your circuit, you can also add another dimension of interactivity. These simple projects are great for all ages and all makerspaces.

A paper circuit smiley for Halloween! Got inspired from the new book by @Makerspaces_com #papercircuits pic.twitter.com/366y0PxCGN

- cincoutprabu (@cincoutprabu) October 10, 2016

There are a lot of creative and imaginative ways to create a paper circuit. These examples from Jie Qi at Chibitronics are truly amazing. Take a look at her Flickr page too see even more paper circuit creations.

Creating paper circuits is a natural fit for the classroom or library. Here's a good example:

Making paper circuits to "illuminate" a concept in our course or classroom. We are #makers !!#MAETy1 pic.twitter.com/GiSF50RgCJ

- Katie Dahmer (@k_dahmer) June 23, 2016

More Friday morning fun with paper circuits! #tinkeringmooc Planning this for Maker Club @ROMS_Learning pic.twitter.com/pOEsnn76hZ

- Jill Gardy Hill (@jmgardyhill) August 5, 2016

This video shows how Milan Dahal used paper circuits to create animation.

Paper cricket #paperCircuits pic.twitter.com/4zhsZCJNs3

- सुरेश (@SuRayShG) September 11, 2016

FREE PDF Download - (5) Paper Circuit Project Templates

There are a wide variety of paper circuit projects you can do. Shown below are most of the materials that you will need in order to complete these different projects. Later in this post, you will learn how to create a simple circuit and will only need copper tape, an LED and a coin cell battery.

Coin-cell battery (3V) CR2032

Copper tape (1/4″) with conductive adhesive

LED - 5mm, 10mm, surface mount or similiar

DC Hobby motor - 130 size

Buzzer - mechanical or piezo

LilyPad button board or slide switch

Paper clip or Binder clip

Clear tape

Double-sided foam tape

Card stock paper - 65-110 lb

Printer/copy paper

Brass brads

Circuit Stickers from Chibitronics (optional)

Circuit Scribe - conductive ink pen (optional)

Electric Paint from Bare Conductive (optional)

The great thing about paper circuits is the ability to create a circuit without the need for soldering. Having said that, you can use a soldering iron for specific reasons which will be explained later. Another optional tool is a paper trimmer which is great for when you are creating paper crafts that light up. Using a paper trimmer is also a safer option then scissors if you are doing this project with younger kids.

WARNINGS - Copper tape can have very sharp edges and is able to cut skin like a paper cut so be careful. Also, this project is low voltage 3v DC and is NOT intended to be used with your wall outlet or 120v. There are small items used in this project such as LEDs and can be a choking hazard for children under 3 years. Most importantly, have fun !

Introduction

Creating a paper circuit is a very fun and easy way to learn about circuits while being creative at the same time. In this tutorial, we are going to make a "simple circuit" which is the most basic of all circuits. To begin with, check out this introductory video from Chibitronics that gives a quick overview about working with copper tape.

Step 1 - Print Out The Template

Before we start you will need to download our Simple Circuit template and print it out on standard printer paper. Card stock is not needed for this particular paper circuit project.

You can also right-click the image below and choose "Save Link As" to save the printable template to your computer.

Step 2 - Apply Copper Tape to Trace Lines

Apply copper tape to all trace lines as marked in brown on the template. Smooth the copper down with your finger. Try to maintain a continuous strip of copper tape versus cutting it at the corners. Fold copper tape at the corners by bending it at a 45′ angle in the opposite direction of where you are going. Then fold it back at a 180′ angle and continue applying to the trace line.

Make sure to leave a gap in the copper tape so the LED can be mounted properly.

Cut the remaining copper tape once you reach the designated battery area.

Step 3 - Score and Fold

Score and then fold the corner line. A scoring tool is very helpful when making folds during a paper circuit project.

Step 4 - Mount LED to Copper Trace

Mount the LED to the copper trace using clear tape. To do this, bend both legs of the LED at a 90′ angle and then tape legs securely to the copper. Make sure that the long leg of the LED goes to the positive (+) side of the copper trace.

The image below from shows how to tell which leg of an LED is positive. If the legs have been cut, you can also determine which side is negative by looking for the flat side of the LED casing.

Step 5 - Attach Battery To Circuit

Last step is to place the coin-cell battery on the copper trace. In this example, make sure the battery (-) is facing down on the copper. The corner flap which is (+) should then be able to contact the battery (+) when folded.

At this point you can secure the corner using a paper clip or binder clip.

FREE PDF Download - (5) Paper Circuit Project Templates

Optional - you can create a paper battery holder which securely holds your coin-cell battery. Chibitronics has a wonderful step-by-step tutorial on how to create one of these.

To create a paper circuit you don't always need to use copper tape. Another good option is to use conductive ink ( Circuit Scribe) or electric paint ( Bare Conductive) to help form the circuit. There are pros and cons however to using these products over copper tape. For example, if you choose to use electric paint you will need to wait a few minutes for the product to dry. According to the manufacturer, "the conductivity of Electric Paint increases as it dries, therefore it is important to wait until it is completely dry to test your projects". But the good thing about using paint and ink is that you are able to make very unique shapes and patterns that you wouldn't have been able to with copper tape.

Below is a great example of a paper circuit project involving conductive ink or electric paint. Make a greeting card that lights up !

#Makerspace project - make an electric greeting card w/ conductive paint via @instructables https://t.co/dtg4fQZxxk pic.twitter.com/4bpeHqqhn1

- Makerspaces.com (@Makerspaces_com) April 23, 2016

A great alternative to the standard LED are Circuit Stickers by Chibitronics. A circuit sticker is a peel-and-stick LED for creating circuits and craft projects. They can be stuck to almost any surface such as paper, plastic, fabric etc. They work with copper tape, conductive ink or even electric paint. Chibitronics also has a line of sensor and effects stickers in addition to the LED sticker. These add-ons can make your project blink, pulse or be responsive to sound.

When using these, make sure to stick the narrow side of the sticker to the negative side of the copper trace. The larger side of the circuit sticker is positive. One great advantage of circuit stickers is their low power consumption. You can light up more circuit stickers per (1) 3v battery than you could using standard LEDs.

Is your LED not lighting? Most of the time it's a very simple fix. Here is a list of the common ways to make your paper circuit functional.

1. Make sure that the LONG leg of your LED is secured to the positive (+) side of the circuit because this is easy to mix up.

2. Sometimes the LED legs are just not contacting the copper tape well enough. Rub the clear tape that secures the LED to ensure there is a solid connection with the copper tape below.

3. Inspect the battery. Make sure the negative (-) of the battery is touching the negative side of the copper tape and the same goes with the positive. Furthermore make sure there is a solid connection between the battery and copper. Sometimes you need to tape the battery down using clear tape.

4. It's highly recommended that you try to maintain a continuous strip of copper foil versus cutting it. But sometimes you just need to make a cut. Make sure you push down and rub the two pieces of copper that are taped together. There needs to be a solid connection.

5. Ensure all copper tape has been smoothed down on the paper with as few wrinkles as possible.

6. Is there a short in the circuit? A short can happen when the positive and negative copper tape make contact with each other. Check around the battery area and the LED area which are common places for this to happen.

7. If you're using a LilyPad switch make sure it is taped down firmly to the copper tape below it. Also, there needs to be a gap in the copper directly below the switch as outlined on the template.

8. Finally, are your parts even functional? At times you might just have a bad battery or bad LED. One easy way to test both of these items is to place the LED directly onto the battery. Make sure the LONG leg is touching the positive side of the battery.

LEDs are used in a ton of #makerspace projects. Here's a simple way to test one. Remember long leg is positive. https://t.co/41ZOiIW9Gb

- Makerspaces.com (@Makerspaces_com) September 15, 2016

Now that you've seen how to create the basic circuit, we're going to step it up a notch and add a switch to control the LED.

Step 1 - Print Circuit Template

Download our Simple Circuit w/ Switch template and print it out on standard printer paper. Card stock is not needed for this particular paper circuit project.

You can also right-click the image below and choose "Save Link As" to save the printable template to your computer.

Step 2 - Apply Copper Tape to Trace Lines

Apply the copper tape to all brown trace lines on the template. Try to maintain a continuous strip of copper tape versus cutting it at the corners. Fold copper tape at the corners by bending it at a 45′ angle in the opposite direction of where you are going. Then fold it back at a 180′ angle and continue applying to the trace line. Make sure to leave a gap in the copper tape so the LED can be mounted properly. Cut the remaining copper tape once you reach the designated battery area.

Step 3 - Score and Fold

Score and then fold the corner line. A scoring tool is very helpful when making folds during a paper circuit project.

Step 4 - Mount LED to Copper Trace

Mount the LED to the copper trace using clear tape. To do this, bend both legs of the LED at a 90′ angle and then tape legs securely to the copper. Make sure that long leg of the LED goes to the positive (+) side of the copper trace.

Step 5 - Attach Battery To Circuit

The next step is to place the coin-cell battery on the copper trace. In this example, make sure the battery (-) is facing down on the copper. The corner flap which is (+) should then be able to contact the battery (+) when folded. Finally, add a paperclip or binder clip to secure the corner.

Step 6 - Attach LilyPad Switch To Circuit

Finally, the LilyPad switch needs to be taped on top of the copper tape. Make sure there is a gap in the copper below the switch as outlined on the template. We love the LilyPad switch because of it's small form factor but there are other ways to create a switch. We outline this alternative method below.

These LilyPad button and slide switches are available at .

If you don't have a LilyPad switch you can always create a switch with a flap of paper with copper on it. Tape the paper switch over the gap with the copper facing down. Press down on the switch to close the circuit and turn on the LED.

We've put together a collection of 5 beautifully designed paper circuit templates that have step-by-step instructions on them. We hope you like these projects and we would love to see what you design. Follow us on Twitter @Makerspaces_com and show us your paper circuits. Have fun and keep learning !

FREE PDF Download - (5) Paper Circuit Project Templates

The internet is filled with great information on paper circuits and here are some of our favorite resources.
Paper Circuits - The Tinkering Studio
Paper Circuits with Copper Tape - High-Low Tech

The Great Big Guide to Paper Circuits - Sparkfun

Paper Circuit Tutorials - Chibitronics

Getting Started with Circuit Stickers - Jie Qi

Plan and Build Your Circuit - Adafruit

Simple Paper Circuit - Make

has a really great learning section on their site which covers almost every maker topic out there. If you want to dig deeper into circuits and electricity, check out their video series called Circuit Playground.

Follow @Makerspaces_com

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Paper Circuits For Makerspaces - Makerspaces.com

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5 Free Paper Circuit Templates - Paper circuits are great makerspace projects for teaching electricity & circuits. Paper Circuit Tutorial PDF

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In the story Magnet Max, the characters learn about magnetic forces around the house. In this STEM Challenge, Students conduct an investigation to find out how objects interact, and which objects are magnetic and non-magnetic.

This Magnet Investigation is the perfect book companion to Magnet Max by Monica Hughes.

This STEM Challenge aligns to NGSS Standards for 3rd Grade NGSS Physical Science 3-PS2-3 but can be used in 2nd-4th grade.
Material List:

magnets (magnet wands recommended)

magnetic objects (paper clips, nails/screws, brass fasteners, etc.)

non-magnetic objects

tray to hold items

Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student STEM Journal

Student Instructions

STEM Activity

Vocabulary Words (Magnetic, Non-magnetic, Magnetic Field)

Student Reflection Sheet

Rubric

TpT Easel Version

3-PS2-3
Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.

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Magnet Max 3rd Grade STEM Activity Magnetism

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Teach about Magnetism with this NGSS Aligned Third Grade STEM Activity!In the story Magnet Max, the characters learn about magnetic forces around the house. In this STEM Challenge, Students conduct an investigation to find out how objects interact, and which objects are magnetic and non-magnetic. Th...

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Summary

Part 1: 1 h Part 2: 1h 40min

Part 1: 1 h Part 2: 1h 40min

Kinetic energy, engineering design process

Sabine De Brabandere, PhD, Science Buddies

Science & Engineering Practices

Disciplinary Core Ideas

Crosscutting Concepts

Science & Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems. Define a design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process or system and includes multiple criteria and constraints, including scientific knowledge that may limit possible solutions.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data. Construct and interpret graphical displays of data to identify linear and nonlinear relationships.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

PS3.A: Definitions of Energy. Motion energy is properly called kinetic energy; it is proportional to the mass of the moving object and grows with the square of its speed.

ETS1.A: Defining and Delimiting Engineering Problems. The more precisely a design task's criteria and constraints can be defined, the more likely it is that the designed solution will be successful. Specification of constraints includes consideration of scientific principles and other relevant knowledge that are likely to limit possible solutions.

ETS1.B:: Developing Possible Solutions. A solution needs to be tested, and then modified on the basis of the test results, in order to improve it.

Crosscutting Concepts

Scale, Proportion, and Quantity. Proportional relationships (e.g. speed as the ratio of distance traveled to time taken) among different types of quantities provide information about the magnitude of properties and processes.

Per group of 3-4 students:

Options for materials that roll:

Options for adding chemistry:

Background Information for Teachers

This section contains a quick review for teachers of the science and concepts covered in this lesson.

Kinetic energy, also called the energy of movement, is the amount of energy an object has due to its mass and its speed. In science, energy refers to the ability to create change (e.g. lift an object, deform an object, warm up a material, etc). The change a moving object can create is a measure of its kinetic energy. In this lesson, students will roll marbles down a ramp and use the distance over which a cup placed in the marble's path can be pushed as a measure of the marble's kinetic energy. Increasing the number of marbles allows students to study the impact of mass. Students will see that kinetic energy is proportional to mass. Students know this from experience, as they know that a heavy brick falling onto a foot can create more damage compared to a light plastic brick falling onto a foot from the same height.

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Letting the marble(s) roll from different heights along the ramp, together with a graph showing the correlation between starting position and speed, allows students to explore how kinetic energy correlates with the speed of an object. A detailed analysis of the data will reveal that kinetic energy is proportional to the square of the speed of the moving object, or, for less mathematically inclined classes, that that kinetic energy quadruples when the speed doubles. Students also know this from experience, as they know that objects that move faster can create a lot more damage and thus, have a lot more kinetic energy. A shopping cart crashing at a slightly higher speed into a car can do a lot more damage than a shopping car that slowly rolls into a car. Or, a small increase in a car's speed quickly creates a much more severe car crash.

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Once students have explored the concept of kinetic energy, they will use it to design a Rube Goldberg machine. Rube Goldberg machines are named after the American cartoonist, author, engineer, and inventor Rube Goldberg (1883-1979). According to Webster's New World Dictionary, a Rube Goldberg machine is "a comically involved, complicated invention, laboriously contrived to perform a simple operation." Rube Goldberg drew many of these machines. Usually, they are a series of simple contraptions, each of which triggers the initiation of the next, achieving the completion of a simple task in a convoluted and complicated way.

Many concepts studied in physics can be explored using Rube Goldberg machines; this lesson highlights kinetic energy. Several of the simple contraptions will have moving parts, and kinetic energy is often an accessible way to understand why they can trigger the next contraption, and if needed, how to make adjustments. For example, a sickle will need to swing fast enough, or be heavy enough, to have the energy it takes to cut a rope. A marble will need to roll fast enough or be heavy enough to have enough energy to knock over a domino. Students will use the concept of kinetic energy in the planning phase, the iterative improvement phase, and while communicating their results.

Prep Work (10 minutes)

Engage (20 minutes)

Explore (45 minutes)

Reflect (20 minutes)

Assess

Make Career Connections

Lesson Plan Variations

Explore Our Science Videos

Science Buddies: Pilobolus Spore Sac Launch

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Study Kinetic Energy with a Rube Goldberg Machine | Lesson Plan

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Part 1: 1 h Part 2: 1h 40min Part 1: 1 h Part 2: 1h 40min Kinetic energy, engineering design process Sabine De Brabandere, PhD, Science Buddies Science & Engineering Practices Disciplinary Core Ideas Crosscutting Concepts Science & Engineering Practices Asking Questions and Defining Problems. Define a design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process or system and includes multiple criteria and constraints, including scientific knowledge that may limit possible solutions.

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In this STEM Lesson, students learn about gravity and complete an Egg Drop Challenge using simple materials.
Connect to a Read Aloud: After the Fall by Dan Santat
This STEM Project is a companion activity to After the Fall by Dan Santat.
The Engineering Design Process:
Students plan, design, and execute their own ideas. After they have completed their activity, there is time for reflection on what worked and what didn't. They follow the six step Engineering Design Process: Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Experiment, Improve.
Integrate Writing!
After completing the STEM Project, students write a fictional narrative about what the bird does after it hatches and flies away.

Amazing resource for STEM club, STEM teachers, elementary librarians, parents who love hands-on learning, and elementary teachers who want to create a hands-on educational environment in their classroom! This is perfect for Spring Time, Easter, or at the End of the School Year!
Material List:

Scissors

Plastic Easter Egg

Tape

Grocery bags

Cardboard

Paper or Newspaper

After the Fall by Dan Santat (Recommended)

Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student STEM Journal

Student Instructions

STEM Activity

Vocabulary Words

Student Reflection Sheet

Writing Activity

TpT Digital Version for Distance Learning with Google Classroom

Digital Activity:
To use Easel for Distance Learning, select "Open in Easel" on this listing.
Follow us!

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After the Fall READ ALOUD STEM™ Activity with TpT Easel

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Integrate STEM and Literacy in your classroom!In this STEM Lesson, students learn about gravity and complete an Egg Drop Challenge using simple materials. Connect to a Read Aloud: After the Fall by Dan SantatThis STEM Project is a companion activity to After the Fall by Dan Santat. The Engineering D...

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In this STEM Lesson, students learn about Rube Goldberg and design their very own Rube Goldberg Machine.
Connect to a Read Aloud: Just Like Rube Goldberg
This STEM Project is a companion activity to Just Like Rube Goldberg by Sarah Aronson.
The Engineering Design Process:
Students plan, design, and execute their own ideas. After they have completed their activity, there is time for reflection on what worked and what didn't. They follow the six step Engineering Design Process: Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Experiment, Improve.
Integrate Writing!
After completing the STEM Project, students write about what they learned.

Amazing resource for STEM club, STEM teachers, elementary librarians, parents who love hands-on learning, and elementary teachers who want to create a hands-on educational environment in their classroom! This is perfect as a beginning of the year activity or end of the year STEM challenge!
Material List:

dominos

books

popsicle sticks

toy cars

cups

rolls of tape (ex. Duct tape or masking tape)

desk bell

marbles and/or ping pong balls

pencils

Just Like Rube Goldberg by Sarah Aronson (Recommended)

Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student STEM Journal

Student Instructions

STEM Activity

Vocabulary Words

Student Reflection Sheet

Writing Activity

TpT Digital Version for Distance Learning with Google Classroom

Digital Activity:
To use Easel for Distance Learning, select "Open in Easel" on this listing.
Follow us!

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Just Like Rube Goldberg READ ALOUD STEAM™ Activity

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Integrate STEAM and Literacy in your classroom!In this STEM Lesson, students learn about Rube Goldberg and design their very own Rube Goldberg Machine.Connect to a Read Aloud: Just Like Rube GoldbergThis STEM Project is a companion activity to Just Like Rube Goldberg by Sarah Aronson.The Engineering...

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This interactive STEM activity is always a highlight of my forces and motion unit! This activity is perfect to reinforce the concepts of forces and friction. Students need to cover or wrap a regular can in different materials to se how they affect the speed a can can travel down a ramp. Students experiment to see how friction affects motion. Set the stage by building up the idea that this is a race- THEN explain that the SLOWEST can is the winner! Students often wrap all kinds of materials around their can- It is fascinating to watch what they come up with. I also love hearing stories of my middle schoolers going to the supermarket and scanning the can aisle for what they think would work best!

Included in this project are:

Informational Reading on the friction with review questions.

STEM design sheet to draw and explain their first idea, final design and other changes made.

Teacher Directions and material suggestions

Rubric

A great way to encourage SUPER SCIENCING!
Now part of an awesome bundle of force lessons for only $4.50
Newtons Force and Motion Laws: Notes, Inquiry Experiments and Review Project
More Great Force Stuff!

* Simple Machines Examples Cut and Paste

* Simple Machines Mini Book

* Force and Motion Stations-inquiry activities for Newton's 1st law/ Inertia

* Newtons Laws of Motion interactive NOTES with demonstrations and activities

* Newton's Third Law Station Science Inquiry Activities (12 stations)

* Newtons Laws of Motion Review Project Poster

* Newtons Laws of Motion Review Sheet

* The Wild Ride- experience and understand inertia as you travel in a car

* Friction & Force Review project-Design a ramp system to slow down a marble

TEACH the STEM process with this interactive flip-book!
Engineering Design Process STEM Steps FLIP BOOK- Differentiated: 4 versions

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Slow Can Race STEM Forces in Motion Activity/ Experiment: Creating Friction

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This interactive STEM activity is always a highlight of my forces and motion unit! This activity is perfect to reinforce the concepts of forces and friction. Students need to cover or wrap a regular can in different materials to se how they affect the speed a can can travel down a ramp.

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In the story, Newton and Me, the boy and his dog explore all sorts of things that move. They figure out what makes things move fast or slow when they push and pull different objects.

In this STEM Challenge, students conduct a group investigation to see if they can use what they know about different surfaces to change the speed of an object. Students then design and build something to change the direction of an object.

This STEM Challenge aligns to NGSS Engineering Standards for Kindergarten, but can be used in 1st grade.
Material List:

Newton and Me by Lynne Mayer

Balls (ping pong balls or large pom-poms are recommended)

Wooden Blocks, Dominoes, Math Manipulatives, Building Bricks, etc.

Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student STEM Journal

Student Instructions

STEM Activity

Vocabulary Words (Direction, Surface, Speed)

Student Reflection Sheet

Rubric

TpT Easel Version

Amazing resource for STEM club, STEM teachers, elementary librarians, parents who love hands-on learning, and elementary teachers who want to create a hands-on educational environment in their classroom!
Aligns to NGSS K-PS2-2
Analyze data to determine if a design solution works as intended to change the speed or direction of an object with a push or a pull.

Learning Objective
I can change the speed or direction of an object.

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Force and Motion Push Pull Physical Science Kindergarten STEM Activity

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Teach Force and Motion, Pushes and pulls, and Surfaces and direction with this Kindergarten STEM Activity! In the story, Newton and Me, the boy and his dog explore all sorts of things that move. They figure out what makes things move fast or slow when they push and pull different objects.In this STE...

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In the Build a Solar Oven STEM Activity, students learn about solar energy and use their knowledge to engineer their own solar cooker to cook s'mores!
Integrate Literacy with a Read Aloud!
This Solar Oven STEM Challenge works as an amazing companion activity to Iqbal and His Ingenious Idea: How a Science Project Helps One Family and the Planet by Liz Suneby.
Take students through the Engineering Design Process!
Students design, build, and test their own Solar Cooker / Solar Oven! After they have completed their activity, there is time for reflection on what worked and what didn't.
Add in Explanatory Writing!
A writing activity is included as a follow up for students to write out a sales pitch for their solar oven creation.

Amazing resource for STEM club, STEM teachers, elementary librarians, parents who love hands-on learning, and elementary teachers who want to create a hands-on educational environment in their classroom!
Material List:

Tape

Unused Pizza Box (Pro Tip: Local Pizza shops gives these away for free)

Clear Plastic Wrap

Popsicle Sticks

Black Construction Paper

Aluminum Foil

Ruler

Scissors

Iqbal and His Ingenious Idea: How a Science Project Helps One Family and the Planet by Liz Suneby (Recommended)

Includes:

Teacher Instructions

Student Instructions

Student Solar Oven STEM Activity

Student Reflection Sheet

Writing Activity

TpT Digital Version for Distance Learning with Google Classroom

Digital Activity:
To use Easel for Distance Learning, select "Open in Easel" on this listing.
Follow us!

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Build a Solar Oven Iqbal READ ALOUD STEM™ Activity

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Integrate STEM in your classroom and teach about Solar Energy with this super fun Solar Oven STEM Challenge!In the Build a Solar Oven STEM Activity, students learn about solar energy and use their knowledge to engineer their own solar cooker to cook s'mores! Integrate Literacy with a Read Aloud!This...

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The Water Princess Water Filter READ ALOUD STEM™ Activity

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Integrate Real-World STEM in your classroom and engage kids in a real world problem. Learn about Water Filtration with this Earth Day STEM Activity! Students learn about the water crisis and water pollution affecting nearly 1 billion people around the world and explore how water filters and other so…

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Travel through the skies with Amelia Earhart! Build an Airplane STEM Challenge is a fun and unique way to engage your students during Women's History Month. Teach students that anyone can be a successful pioneer in industry regardless of gender.

Students begin the activity by reading about Amelia Earhart and learning vocabulary on different aspects of flight (thrust, lift, drag, weight, and force). You can also use I am Amelia Earhart by Brad Meltzer with this resource to help students learn more background knowledge.

Students design, build, and test their own Airplane! After they have completed their activity, there is time for reflection on what worked and what didn't.

BONUS: An informational writing activity using topic sentence and supporting details is included to help students reflect and write about what they learned about Amelia Earhart during the STEM Activity!

Amazing resource for STEM club, STEM teachers, elementary librarians, parents who love hands-on learning, and elementary teachers who want to create a hands-on educational environment in their classroom!
Material List:

Scissors

Popsicle Sticks

Cardstock

Tape

Rulers or Yardsticks

I am Amelia Earhart by Brad Meltzer (Recommended)

Includes:

Teacher Instructions (With Example Photograph)

Student STEM Journal

Student Instructions

Student Build an Airplane STEM Activity

Student Reflection Sheet

Student Test Recording Sheets

Amelia Earhart Reading Passage and Questions

Informational Text Writing Activity

TpT Digital Version for Distance Learning with Google Classroom

Digital Activity:
To use Easel for Distance Learning, select "Open in Easel" on this listing. Works with computers, laptops, chromebooks, ipads, and tablets.

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Amelia Earhart Build an Airplane READ ALOUD STEM™ Activity

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Integrate STEM and Social Studies in your classroom during Women's History Month with this Amelia Earhart STEM Challenge! Travel through the skies with Amelia Earhart! Build an Airplane STEM Challenge is a fun and unique way to engage your students during Women's History Month. Teach students that a...

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Introduction: FUN WITH CIRCUITS USING MODELING CLAY

Making modeling clay structures is fun, but making them with light-up eyes and moving parts is even more fun. Clay modeling is one of the favorite activities of kids because kids like being messy. I thought it would be icing on the cake if they will see glowing light, running motor and sound of a buzzer on Clay. This hands-on learning can be easily done at home by using few materials. Clay has a playful nature, so kids can explore Electronic Circuits in a playful way. They will learn about Closed Circuit, Open Circuit, and Short Circuit. This hands on learning can be done by kids above 4 years.

You can initiate or encourage curiosity just by asking this question :

Do you know you can make creatures or things using modeling Clay that can light up, move and make a sound? Watch their ZEAL for the learning !!

Be the First to Share

Recommendations

Big and Small Contest

For the Home Contest

Make it Glow Contest

Step 1: Materials Required in Making Circuit

1) A power source with a current value of 5 volts. I have used a battery of 9 Volts.

2) Two wire leads with alligator clips on each end.

2) Modeling Clay.

3) Some finely grinded salt.

4) LED's as required for your project.

5) Additional Components like Buzzer, Motor, etc to extend your circuit.

5) Tap water, which form an ion-rich electrolyte (electricity passes or is conducted from ion to ion)

And of course some creativity too to make exciting models (:

Step 2: Concept Behind the Magic on Clay

What is a Circuit?
A closed path through which an electric current flow is called a Circuit. Well, a circuit is formed when it provides a closed path for the current to flow. And for the current to flow, we require materials that allow current to pass through it. Most clay from the craft store is non conducting. The non-conducting or Insulating clay resists the flow of current flowing through it. But we need a way to make it conducting. So, we used salt to make it conducting.

PATH FLOW: The current will move from the positive end of the battery(red wire) to one roll/ball of the clay to LED, to another roll of clay, to the negative end of the battery(black wire). This way it will be a closed circuit. If any of the wire is not connected, it will be an open circuit.

This is the basic step in learning a Closed and Open circuit. In place of LED, Motor and Buzzer can be used as per project requirements.

Step 3: Make Your Clay Conducting

Take one piece of the clay and mix it with approximately one spoon of very finely grinded salt so that it can mix well with the clay. Take tap water if required in between. After mixing, make two balls of conducting clay.

Step 4: Light Up Your Clay

*Place the two conducting balls of clay on a table.

*Take one LED and insert long leg i.e positive terminal of the LED into one ball and short leg i.e negative terminal of the LED into another ball.

*Connect the red i.e positive wire from the battery to the ball having positive terminal of LED and the black wire to another ball having negative terminal of the LED.

HERE WE GO...... The LED lights up. Yayy !!!

Step 5: Make Your Own Model

After learning how a circuit is formed using playing dough, kids can make any creature or structure of their own. They will use their creativity to glow light on cars, dragons, cake, Train and what not.

Here is the model of train after the learning of simple circuit.

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FUN WITH CIRCUITS USING MODELING CLAY: Making modeling clay structures is fun, but making them with light-up eyes and moving parts is even more fun. Clay modeling is one of the favorite activities of kids because kids like being messy. I thought it would be icing on the cake if they will...

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Engineering~Math~Art~Science
These 9 STEM/STEAM force and motion activities and challenges are a perfect way to integrate more STEAM strategies into a force and motion unit. These activities can be used throughout a unit as each topic is covered (gravity, friction, inertia, motion, magnetic and other forces) or at the end of the unit as culminating activities.

Each activity includes a student direction page with all materials listed, a sign to label the centers, reflection/follow-up pages for students to complete, and pictures of completed examples.

The 9 activities/challenges included are:
-Rice and Pasta Friction Experiment
-Marshmallow Shooter Challenge
-Build a Parachute Challenge
-Car Ramp Gravity Experiment
-Car Race Friction Experiment
-Magnet Maze Challenge
-Marble Pinball Maze Challenge
-Is this Magnetic? Activity
-Pendulum Art Activity

If you like this product, check out:
Space STEM Activities
Habitat and Adaptations STEM Activities
Weather STEM Activities

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Engineering~Math~Art~Science These 9 STEM/STEAM force and motion activities and challenges are a perfect way to integrate more STEAM strategies into a force and motion unit. These activities can be used throughout a unit as each topic is covered (gravity, friction, inertia, motion, magnetic and othe...

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To kick off the science unit on sound, 1st graders created their own musical instrument in digital learning. Shout out to @NBoudreau27 for designing such a fun Makerspace challenge! @TheBatchBulldog

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To kick off the science unit on sound, 1st graders created their own musical instrument in digital learning. Shout out to @NBoudreau27 for designing such a fun Makerspace challenge! @TheBatchBulldog https://t.co/FWRFZxNQEH

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To kick off the science unit on sound, 1st graders created their own musical instrument in digital learning. Shout out to @NBoudreau27 for designing such a fun Makerspace challenge! @TheBatchBulldog pic.twitter.com/FWRFZxNQEH
— MsLindsayNRPS (@MsLindsayNRPS) March 2, 2022

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To kick off the science unit on sound, 1st graders created their own musical instrument in digital learning. Shout out to @NBoudreau27 for designing such a fun Makerspace challenge! @TheBatchBulldog https://t.co/FWRFZxNQEH

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.original_text
To kick off the science unit on sound, 1st graders created their own musical instrument in digital learning. Shout out to @NBoudreau27 for designing such a fun Makerspace challenge! @TheBatchBulldog https://t.co/FWRFZxNQEH

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To kick off the science unit on sound, 1st graders created their own musical instrument in digital learning. Shout out to @NBoudreau27 for designing such a fun Makerspace challenge! @TheBatchBulldog

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Build a Cart - Push & Pull (Kindergarten)

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Build a Cart - Push & Pull (Kindergarten) Students use pre-made axels with wheels attached to build a cardboard cart. Students attach a Kibo Robot to pull their cart over a ramp. NGSS Performance Expectation. K-PS2-2. Analyze data to determine if a design solution works as intended to change

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Hey Teachers! 🔍☁️ Did you know that having students create their own cloud viewers with a cardboard window can spark their creativity and love for nature? It's a fun and engaging activity that encourages them to observe and appreciate the beauty of the sky! *Recycle & Play

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Hey Teachers! 🔍☁️ Did you know that having students create their own cloud viewers with a cardboard window can spark their creativity and love for nature? It's a fun and engaging activity that encourages them to observe and appreciate the beauty of the sky! *Recycle & Play https://t.co/LeK3x10wUr

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Hey Teachers! 🔍☁️ Did you know that having students create their own cloud viewers with a cardboard window can spark their creativity and love for nature? It's a fun and engaging activity that encourages them to observe and appreciate the beauty of the sky! *Recycle & Play pic.twitter.com/LeK3x10wUr
— Julia's #STEAMing up Learning! (@GiftedTawk) March 14, 2023

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Hey Teachers! 🔍☁️ Did you know that having students create their own cloud viewers with a cardboard window can spark their creativity and love for nature? It's a fun and engaging activity that encourages them to observe and appreciate the beauty of the sky! *Recycle & Play https://t.co/LeK3x10wUr

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.original_text
Hey Teachers! 🔍☁️ Did you know that having students create their own cloud viewers with a cardboard window can spark their creativity and love for nature? It's a fun and engaging activity that encourages them to observe and appreciate the beauty of the sky! *Recycle & Play https://t.co/LeK3x10wUr

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.text
Hey Teachers! 🔍☁️ Did you know that having students create their own cloud viewers with a cardboard window can spark their creativity and love for nature? It's a fun and engaging activity that encourages them to observe and appreciate the beauty of the sky! *Recycle & Play

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The Challenge

Design and build two catapults. Each catapult will undergo three different tests to determine accuracy and power.

I have tried several versions of this challenge with my middle school students, and I believe the most successful activity is to have students build two catapults. Working in teams, students brainstorm ideas, select the top two designs, and complete three tests to determine the winning design. Ensure students have a key design difference between the two such as a different base, launcher, or axle.

Set-up

The best way to set-up the activity is to show pictures and videos of various catapult designs. Discuss what are the basic features of a catapult. Great resources include: TeachEngineering, Science Behind Catapults, and Pumpkin Chunkin Video. I also encourage reviewing the engineering design process and stressing the importance of testing. I really like this PBS resource on using the engineering design process for STEM challenges.

Materials

To determine a materials list, I researched several ways to build a catapult as well as experimented at home. I decided to have the following available during the project:

You can make all materials available to students or incorporate budgeting by adding a price tag to each supply. I kept it simple by making all supplies available, and I did not have any issues. Once you introduce the various supplies, I found it important to give a couple of examples. I demonstrated how to make a simple coke and rubber band catapult and pointed out the main features. Encourage students to think outside the box with the supplies provided!

Testing Stations

Once students have built their catapults, it is time to launch! These three stations can be adapted to your space, but make sure students record results as they go.

Station 1 - Accuracy Cotton balls and a bowl make-up this station. The bowl will be in a set location (works well on the floor). Teams will have 2 test runs to determine launching distance. Then, from a set distance, students will launch their cotton balls. Record how many make it into the bowl out of 5 attempts.

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After years of STEM activities, including towers, bridges, race cars, and rockets, one my favorites is the classic catapult challenge! I believe it incorporates all aspects of a quality STEM activity: easy math connection, engineering design process, student-driven learning, and ha

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The balloon can be a representation of a character from their favorite movie, TV show, book, or even their own unique design.

Once students complete their balloon designs, it's time for the STEM component! Give students the additional challenge of making their balloon suspend in the air. Students will have to use their critical thinking and engineering skills to design a device that keeps the ballon suspended in the air as if it was inflated with helium just like the balloons in the Thanksgiving parade.

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Balloons Over Broadway Thanksgiving STEM Challenge - Carly and Adam

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Want to know the secret to navigating that challenging transition between Halloween and Christmas!? One of our favorite ways to increase student engagement is with STEM, and one of our favorite STEM activities is our Balloons Over Broadway STEM Challenge . Follow these step-by-step instructions t

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PBL project ideas to help teachers get started with PBL in their classroom. PBL projects help students explore topics in a way that makes learning meaningful, memorable, and fun.

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When we help kids make connections, we strengthen their learning experience. Integrating multiple subjects when studying a topic or theme is one way to help build these connections. STEM (which stands for science, technology, engineering, and math) activities provide a fabulous vehicle for integrated learning.

However, I like to add another crucial element to the mix.The subject that binds all the others together is LITERACY. The communication of ideas to and from the child is where the real learning and processing comes into play.
5 Ways to Add Literacy to STEM Activities
1.Use a piece of writing such as a children's book, newspaper article or an interview as the inspiration for a STEM project. Check out these book inspired STEM activities;

Enjoy Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and then build an alphabet tree from Handmade Kids Art.

Read Twenty-One Elephants and then create a bridge strong enough to hold toy elephants from Playground Parkbench.

Giggle along to Ten Apples Up On Top! and then try these 10 STEM apple ideas from Little Bins for Little Hands.

Enjoy the classic, Corduroy, and then try this button building challenge with The Educator's Spin On It.

2. Gather a stack of books on a topic. Share books about being a scientist, mathematician, inventor, artist and engineer. Here are some of our favourites;

Also, collect fiction and non-fiction books that will help your child delve deeper into the topic of your study.

3. Keep a project journal. Documenting your process as you work is important for gathering information, analyzing results, and creating future plans. Try a simple individual journal of folded sheets of paper or purchase a bigger blank notebook in which to record several studies over a period of time.

4. Make a book. After it is complete, challenge your child to write and illustrate their own book about the activity. This is great for helping kids to sequence events and retell the process they used for completing the activity.

5. Talk. Talking with others about your work helps to solidify your learning and creates a bridge to further inquiry. Pull up a chair and ask, "Tell me about your work." Then, let the flood gates open to some great conversation.
A Literacy Rich STEM Activity: Popping Buttons
Now, I thrive on examples. So here is one idea for a STEM activity packed with literacy.

1.Read Pete the Cat's Four Groovy Buttons. It's a fun and beloved book about a blue cat that loses all his buttons from his shirt.

2. Challenge the kids to create an object that will literally pop a button from one place to another.

3. Gather a stack of books for research on simple machines or Rube Goldberg machines, utilize the internet for examples and further research. Here are some books to inspire your investigation;

4. Let the kids draw their plans and create a list of materials they will need for their project.

5. Carry out the challenge.

6. Record the steps and results of your challenge in a journal.

7. Make a book to explain the project to a younger child.

8. Have the kids read their work or tell someone about the activity.

So the next time you decide to do an awesome STEM project with the kids, I encourage you to look for opportunities to weave literacy into the experience. The learning benefits derived from the one activity will increase, and the project will be greatly enhanced.

Jodie Rodriguez has a passion for helping caregivers nurture our youngest readers. As a former National Board Certified early-childhood, elementary teacher and administrator, she has worked with thousands of families and educators providing best literacy practices. She lives near St. Louis, Missouri and now stays home with home with her two young sons.

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5 Steps to Literacy Rich STEM Activities

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Integrating learning across subjects is one way to help build learning connections. STEM is a perfect example of the power of integration. But it cannot happen without literacy!

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This spider web STEM challenge activity can be explored a number of ways. Two of the versions of the spider web STEM challenge are featured in a free printable set. The set first walks children through creating a cardboard square web. Then it shares a round paper plate web. If you decide that those spider webs are too challenging for your children, a third version will be shared at the end of the post. However, it does not have a recording sheet..

All of the spider webs feature the same web structure. Children will start by creating a framework. After that they will weave dental floss over and under the framework.

Building Background

Before your children start the spider web STEM challenge, you may want to read them a book about spider webs. Seeing the spider webs displayed and discussed in a book or books may inspire them in their web building.

The links below are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Getting Ready to Build a Spider Web

Getting the Spider Web Activity Set

This STEM challenge is a PDF. When you download it, you will need to open it with a PDF reader. Acrobat Reader is a popular reader that you can download to use. You probably have it on your computer already.

Gathering the Supplies

This activity will need the following supplies

Scissors

Waxed Dental Floss ( You can use other types of dental floss, but they aren't as easy to use.)

Cardboard Frame or Paper Plate

Hole Punch

Tape

Plastic Spider

Building the Web

There are directions in the set that will walk children through how to build the web. There are also some questions they will want to think about before they build their web.

Another Way to Build the Spider Web

If you don't have access to waxed dental floss, you can use plain or unwaxed floss. It will be a challenge to keep the floss in place.

One way that you can help the floss to stay in position is to place small sections of a straw between them. Each section of straw will need to have a small slit in it. The slit will allow children to slide the straw section onto the floss.
It actually creates a cool looking web!

More Spider-Themed Activities
Spider Web STEM Hanger Challenge Alphabet Match Game with a Spider-Theme

(Visited 2,806 times, 45 visits today)

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This spider web STEM challenge invites children to create a spider web with dental floss. A free recording sheet is available.

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Literacy + engineering lessons and resources for K-8 teachers.

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Just a preview of tomorrow's @CodeJoyEdu inspired mini golf course powered by Bit:explorer @lectrifyit and the micro:bits from @InfyFoundation Pathfinders PD.

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Just a preview of tomorrow's @CodeJoyEdu inspired mini golf course powered by Bit:explorer @lectrifyit and the micro:bits from @InfyFoundation Pathfinders PD. https://t.co/7fi955o5nG

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Just a preview of tomorrow's @CodeJoyEdu inspired mini golf course powered by Bit:explorer @lectrifyit and the micro:bits from @InfyFoundation Pathfinders PD. pic.twitter.com/7fi955o5nG
— Karie Huttner (@huttnerk) October 26, 2023

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Just a preview of tomorrow's @CodeJoyEdu inspired mini golf course powered by Bit:explorer @lectrifyit and the micro:bits from @InfyFoundation Pathfinders PD. https://t.co/7fi955o5nG

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Just a preview of tomorrow's @CodeJoyEdu inspired mini golf course powered by Bit:explorer @lectrifyit and the micro:bits from @InfyFoundation Pathfinders PD. https://t.co/7fi955o5nG

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Just a preview of tomorrow's @CodeJoyEdu inspired mini golf course powered by Bit:explorer @lectrifyit and the micro:bits from @InfyFoundation Pathfinders PD.