Introducing STEM to Second Grade |
What is the purpose?
What is our STEM process?
- We will learn by doing.
- We will learn that failure is an opportunity to learn...it is OKAY!!!
- We will work on teamwork and perseverance.
- We will be problem solvers!
What is our STEM process?
- ASK myself, "What is a solution?"
- PLAN my own ideas by writing or sketching
- COLLABORATE with my partner(s) if possible
- CREATE the best idea
- IMPROVE be revising the idea or trying a new one if it fails
STEM Challenge #1 - Pasta Tower
Teams needed to build the tallest tower with using limited materials. The one rule is that the marshmallow needed to be on top. The supplies were:
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STEM Challenge #2 - Build a Boat
Students could chose to work in a team or by themselves. The challenge was to build a contraption that could float. After passing the challenge of being able to float, their boat would also be tested on how much weight it could hold. The one rule is that there needed to be a spot on their boat that could hold quarters when we tested the weight.
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STEM Challenge #3 - Protect Henny Penny
For this challenge, our class partnered with a Kindergarten classroom. After reading the story Henny Penny, students needed to create a structure that protected Henny Penny from the sky that was falling. Any materials could be used, but the structure could not be larger than 5" x 5" x 5". Each second grader was paired with a kindergartner to collaborate and help guide the process. After the structure was complete, Henny Penny (aka a frosted mini-wheat) was put in her house. Bean bags were then dropped from 6", 12", and 36" to see if Henny Penny survived.
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Genius Hour
Students had an opportunity to work on a project of their choice. They could work with partners or by themselves. I encouraged them to also incorporate technology. Before they could begin the project, they were required to provide me with a goal and purpose for their project. I had students become quick experts in iMovie, the Show Me app, and the Piktochart website after short tutorials. Finished products can be found on my classroom website: melissagorsegner.weebly.com.
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