If you read my post on Leprechaun Traps, you know I absolutely LOVE STEM! So when Carson Dellosa Education contacted me about reviewing their new Stem Challenges and Seasonal Stem Challenges, I didn't hesitate! I can't wait to tell you all about these LOW PREP, grab and go STEM activities!
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Carson Dellosa Education. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
STEM is curriculum based on four specific disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and math. I've recently had some conversations with a few teachers who want to incorporate STEM into the classroom but feel overwhelmed where to start! I think most teachers see the value of STEM in the classroom, but don't know how or when to get it going. What I love about these new STEM cards is that everything is printed and ready to go making it SO easy on the teacher!
These STEM challenges are designed for grades 2-5 but many of them could be used in 1st grade with support! You can add these challenges to your school day by incorporating them into centers or morning work tubs! Each STEM card has a challenge and list of items you'll need to complete it. Most of the items are common materials teachers have around the classroom already!
I really love how the challenges are organized and ready for you to GRAB & GO! In the STEM Challenges Set, there are three categories: Physical Science, Life Science, and Earth & Space. In the Seasonal STEM Challenges, there are also three categories: Autumn, Winter, and Spring/Summer. This makes it so easy to search through the challenges and find what you need!! Each tab divider has a list of the challenges in that particular category along with the topic it covers!
In the "Sink or Swim" activity, students are challenged to use straws to create a device or vehicle that floats. All of the materials I needed were items I already had on hand: straws, tape, play dough, and a container to hold water.
When you flip each card over you'll see a helpful hint, questions to extend learning, and an explanation of the science behind each challenge. Bonus: The cards are thick with a slight laminate finish, so I think they'll hold up really well over time!!
Half the fun of this "Art of the Leaf" challenge was having my boys collect sticks and leaves outside before we began! I find these shoe box bins work well for storing all the supplies we need while we're working on a challenge. You could also use large ziploc bags just as easily!
These STEM cards would be perfect for use in small groups. Simply display the front of the challenge card on the overhead and let students work together to tackle the challenge. After a given amount of time, provide the "hint" if needed. When students have completed the challenge, flip the card over and discuss whole group with the questions provided! I just love how LOW PREP these STEM challenges are!
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To learn more about these Low Prep STEM Challenges from Carson Dellosa, click here. Do you currently use STEM in your classroom? How would you use these cards in your day? Comment below!
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7 Comments
Dr Pamela Sweeney
7/22/2018 06:36:09 am
Using these STEM LOW PREP gives me opportunity to go deeper as an interdisciplinary, teaching students the difference between problem-based to project-base. , used in stations, and asking students can you extend beyond what the challenge is asking.
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Susan Newton
7/23/2018 05:02:55 pm
Looks great
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Sophie Hill
4/19/2019 08:50:06 pm
I want more out of the box and out of the given curriculum activities but I’m a new teacher so I don’t have a lot of supplies . This would be great for my class!!!
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Barb Talbot
7/30/2019 06:37:08 pm
I am a program director for a non profit organization, I am looking to incorporate a STEM activity period, this would be great for my kiddos, looks easy, and appealing to my 1st-3rd graders!
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Vicky Flavin
1/21/2023 07:29:29 am
I'm going to suggest this to my 3rd gr. Team.
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ESMERALDA TORRES-BAUZA
5/30/2023 11:35:25 am
excelent
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