How to 3D Print a Keychain: A Fun, Hands-On Project for Middle School Makers

This image is titled, "3D Printing Keychain Project." The image shows a blue 3D printed keychain tag that reads, "Go Bears" and features a paw print. The keychain tag is next to a laptop that shows a 3D sketch of the same keychain tag.

By Trilby Looking for a beginner-friendly way to bring 3D printing into your classroom? A custom keychain is the perfect place to start. It’s small, personal, and packed with opportunities to build creativity and design thinking. Whether you’re brand new to 3D printing or looking to expand your maker activities, learning how to 3D print […]

Chemistry for Middle Schoolers: DIY Cold Pack STEM Challenge

This image is titled, "Chemistry STEM Project." The image shows two worksheets titled "DIY Cold Pack: Engineering Design Challenge." The worksheets have been partially completed in blue ink. There are various science supplies in the background, including a graduated cylinder, a thermometer, and a measuring spoon.

By Trilby Are you looking for an engaging and hands-on chemistry for middle schoolers activity? The DIY Cold Pack STEM Challenge is the perfect way to introduce students to chemical reactions, endothermic processes, and real-world applications of science. In this middle school chemistry project, students will explore how chemical reactions can absorb heat and create […]

The Perfect St. Patrick’s Day STEM Activity

This image shows a set of worksheets titled "Snake Removal Tool." The worksheet is surrounded by a rubber snake, tape, and index cards. The image has text reading, "St. Patrick's Day STEM Activity."

By Trilby Are you looking for the perfect St. Patrick’s Day activity to celebrate the holiday in your classroom? A St. Patrick’s Day STEM Challenge is a great way to bring the legends of this holiday to life while engaging students in hands-on learning.  Teachers, Are you short on time? Grab the ready-to-go activity here. […]

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 […]

Middle School STEM Projects that Engage and Inspire

The text reads, "Middle School STEM Projects." The image shows DIY cars made out of household materials.

Are you facing the challenge of maintaining full engagement in your middle school STEM classroom? As educators, striking the right balance between rigor and excitement is an ongoing struggle. Luckily, we have the perfect solution to transform your STEM lessons into captivating experiences.

How to Create Magical Valentines with LED Lights

This image shows 3 DIY Valentine's Day cards with LED lights. The text reads "LED Valentines." There is a hand pressing a button on the center card to light up the mini LED.

Check out this STEM project perfect for Valentine’s Day. Your middle school students students will love learning about circuits, using their creativity, and creating one-of-a-kind Valentines with LED lights to give to their family and friends. Read on for a step-by-step guide to this illuminating educational experience.

Inspire the Next Generation: How to Celebrate National STEM Day

This image shows two kids at a table with a variety of electrical components and a computer. The text reads, "Ideas for STEM Day."

National STEM Day is a day dedicated to celebrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It is a great opportunity to engage in activities that promote curiosity and problem-solving skills. This guide offers teachers and homeschooling parents guidance on how to celebrate National STEM Day. Short on time? Grab this FREE “What is Engineering?” lesson perfect […]