Life Cycle Project: Engaging Elementary Students in Science Exploration

This image shows a child observing a butterfly chrysalis hanging from a leaf. The text reads "Your Complete Guide to Life Cycle Projects."

By Trilby Hillenbrand Have you ever marveled at the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly? Witnessing the journey of a living organism from birth to adulthood is an awe-inspiring experience. A life cycle project offers a unique opportunity for students to explore the wonders of the natural world while developing crucial science skills. Through […]

Your Guide to Teaching Algorithms in Computer Programming

This image shows a teen sitting at a desk writing a computer program. There is a highlighted sheet of paper on the desk. The text reads "Algorithms in Computer Programming."

By Trilby Hillenbrand Are your students struggling to grasp the concept of algorithms in computer programming? This comprehensive guide provides practical strategies and resources to effectively teach this crucial subject, whether you’re a seasoned STEM teacher or just starting. We’ll explore how to break down complex algorithms into manageable steps, engage students in hands-on activities, […]

Top 5 Unplugged Coding Activities to Teach Computer Science

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By Trilby Hillenbrand In today’s digital age, teaching computer science is more important than ever. But coding doesn’t always have to involve screens and devices. Unplugged coding activities offer a hands-on, screen-free approach to teaching fundamental computer science concepts.  Short on time? Grab ready-to-go computer science lessons and activities. By stepping away from the computer, […]

Kickstart Your STEM Classroom: Engaging First-Day Activities

The image shows a teacher and two teenage students building a robot. The image reads "STEM Class Activities for Week 1."

Starting a new school year is the perfect opportunity to set the tone for an exciting and successful STEM classroom experience. Picture a classroom where students are excited to learn and ready to embrace the collaborative and inventive nature of STEM from the very start. Check out these creative and engaging first-day activities to help […]

Explain the Engineering Design Process: A Guide for Teachers

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Imagine your classroom buzzing with the excitement of students tackling real-world problems, collaborating to brainstorm innovative solutions, and eagerly building prototypes to test their ideas. This is the reality of a STEM classroom! But it takes work to get there, and it starts teaching students how to solve problems. This guide will show you how […]

The Role of Criteria and Constraints in the Engineering Design Process

The background shows a child working with a circuit board. The text reads "Criteria and Constraints in the Design Process."

By Trilby Hillenbrand When students, engineers, or inventors start a new project, they are often excited to brainstorm ideas and create prototypes. However, one of the most important steps in the engineering design process is actually defining the problem. This means understanding what the problem is and figuring out the criteria and constraints that will […]

Quick STEM Challenge Idea for Middle School

This image shows two worksheets titled "Cell phone stand engineering design challenge." There is a notebook, pencil, scissors, and glue in the background.

By Trilby Hillenbrand Looking for a quick STEM challenge that you can throw together with minimal prep while still getting the fun and meaningful learning experience you love? Challenge your students to create a DIY cell phone stand. This quick STEM project combines creativity and engineering skills while developing 21st-century learners. Let’s dive in. Disclosure: […]

Harnessing the Breeze: A Guide to a Wind Power Car STEM Project

The image titled reads, "Wind-Powered Cars STEM Project." The image shows a DIY wind-powered car created from household materials.

By Trilby Hillenbrand Let’s create wind-powered cars! It’s not just a cool idea from the future; it’s a fun project your students can do today. Find out how to engage your students in hands-on learning while they build, test, and race a wind power car. Sustainability and innovation are a perfect match! Disclosure: This post […]

How to Create a Water Filter STEM Project

The image text reads, "How to create a DIY water filter." The image shows a water filter created from a 2 liter plastic bottle next to a sample of polluted water.

By Trilby Hillenbrand DIY water filters are an impactful STEM project. The learning experience can inspire and empower students to become environmentally conscious problem-solvers and equip them with the skills and knowledge to tackle global challenges related to water quality and sustainability. The benefits are many but you may be wondering, “How exactly do I […]

Creative and Unique End-of-Year Student Awards for Middle School

The image text reads, "end-of-year student awards." The image shows a certificate for the "Most Valuable Player" and a DIY trophy showing a foil figure sitting on top of a cup wrapped in foil with a crown on its head and the caption reads "most valuable player."

By Trilby Hillenbrand The weather’s getting warmer, and everyone’s counting down the days until summer! End-of-year awards are a great way to close out the school year and celebrate your student’s achievements and hard work throughout the school year. However, this year, imagine a twist on the student awards format that celebrates your students and […]