Back to school time? Oh, I know. It’s a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, nerves, and the ever-looming to-do lists. Well, guess what? I’ve got your back! Let’s add a dash of fun in the mix of assessments and, dare I say, paperwork. It’s STEM time! We’re talking problem-solving, perseverance, and a whole lotta collabing – the best kind of classroom chaos.
If you’ve got some first-time STEM-ers (yeah, that’s a word now), don’t sweat it. Pop over to my blog post, Tips on Introducing STEM to little kids. You’ll be rolling in no time.
Here are five STEM activities that are a total blast and perfect for back to school. Plus, I’ve added a cherry on top with a brand-new resource. Spoiler: It’s all about brain plasticity, and it’s gonna knock your socks off!
Back to School STEAM Activity #1: All About Me STEM
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Multi Colored pipe cleaners
- Styrofoam ball cut in half pieces
Think of it as a super fun, hands-on survey. With every ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, students earn supplies and create their unique sculptures. Display them, compare them, and the kids shine! These are so cute for displaying in the classroom!
Back to School STEM Activity #3: Getting to Know You STEM
Here’s what you’ll need:
Take your student interest inventory survey up a notch! This STEM twist lets students earn materials based on their answers. What do they do next? Build a surprise challenge with the earned materials. You’ll see some serious strategizing from your little builds. For real!
Back to School STEAM Activities #4: The Dot STEM
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Craft sticks
- Tape
- Printable
- The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
Let’s make ‘The Dot’ by Peter H. Reynolds come alive! After reading this heartwarming story, students create their mark and an easel to display it. Prepare to be amazed at their creativity!
Back to School STEM Activities #4: Brain Plasticity:
Here’s what you’ll need:
Buckle up for this! This brainy new resource is going to take your classroom to the next level! We’re talking about exploring the wonders of a growth mindset through hands-on STEM activities, critical thinking, problem-solving, and so much more. This comprehensive lesson is packed with discussion starters, exit tickets, reading passages, and wait for it… 6 STEAM task cards!
Back to School STEM Challenges #5: Fall STEM Task Cards
Here’s what you’ll need:
Hello, versatile learning! With 30 task cards, kids can create something fun based on the STEM task card using any material they’d like. These are all related to back-to-school topics and include QR codes to give students background knowledge about the topic.
Now, these aren’t just lesson plans. It’s a journey of growth and exploration for your students. You’ll see them developing a growth mindset, understanding the brain’s learning process, and hurting a love for learning that’ll last a lifetime.
Raise the bar with this transformative lesson. Let’s inspire them like never before!
I can’t wait to hear about your favorite back-to-school activities. Drop your ideas in the comments, and let’s get the conversation rolling!
Psst… Want some checklists for Back to School so you don’t miss a thing?
Click HERE to get my FREE checklists!
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