STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) is the movement designed to promote educational activities related to the sciences and math across all grade levels. Since these subjects are considered integral to future competitive economic growth, federal entities have an avid interest in promoting and supporting them.
For teachers, this means more exposure for science and math topics, as well as plentiful resources for activities and lessons. The 20 STEM activities below are great examples of experiments and challenges that can be integrated into weekly lesson plans to encourage students to think outside of the proverbial box. Give them a try!
STEM Experiments and Challenges for the Classroom
1. Engineering a Rainbow with Jelly Beans
from 123 Homeschool 4 Me
2. How Strong Is a Piece of Paper?
from Creekside Learning
3. Rainbow Naked Egg Experiment
from Schooling A Monkey
4. Building Flood Barriers
from Teachers Are Terrific
5. Spinning Pen Magnet Experiment
by Frugal Fun 4 Boys
“STEM education” refers to teaching & learning in the fields of science, tech, engineering & math. (Gonzalez,2012) #TeachChatTweet
6. 3 Little Pigs STEM Challenge
by Sweet Sounds of Kindergarten
7. Popsicle Catapult
by Little Bins For Little Hands
8. Bottle Diver Science Experiment
by Cool Science Experiments HQ
9. Baking Soda Rockets
by We Know Stuff
10. Building a Straw Bridge
by The STEM Laboratory
11. Baking Soda and Vinegar Powered Boat
by Beaker Life
12. Make a Lemon Battery
by EDventures with Kids
13. Simple Circuits
by Rookie Parenting
14. STEM Airplane Challenge
by Kids Activities Blog
15. Heat Sensitive Color Changing Slime
by Left Brain Craft Brain
16. Space Lander Mission STEM Challenge
by Vivify STEM
17. Motorized Coloring Machine
by Crystal and Comp
18. Ice Fishing Chemistry
by Bren Did
19. Egg Tower Challenge
by The Resourceful Mama
20. Dancing Rice
by Buggy and Buddy
What are some of your favorite STEM activities for kids? Share them with us in the comments below!
By Brandi Jordan