This image shows a Thanksgiving table with lots of traditional Thanksgiving dishes. The text reads "Thanksgiving STEM Challenge."

Thanksgiving Table STEM Challenge for Middle School

Are you looking for the perfect Thanksgiving STEM activity to bring some seasonal fun into your classroom? Or maybe you need to keep your students engaged during the excitement and chaos that comes with approaching school breaks… Either way, check out this Thanksgiving Table STEM challenge that is sure to keep your students’ interest.

This image shows a Thanksgiving table built from wooden blocks. "Food" (books with food pictures attached) is stacked on top of the table.

Thanksgiving Table STEM Challenge

In this Thanksgiving engineering challenge, students are tasked with saving Thanksgiving by designing and building a table that will support a turkey and all the fixings! First, students brainstorm ideas for their design. Then they use household materials to build a model dinner table. Finally, test how much “food” (aka books with pictures of traditional Thanksgiving dishes attached) they can stack on top of their table before it breaks.

This image shows a Thanksgiving engineering activity worksheet. The text says "Thanksgiving Table: STEM Design Challenge," and "digital included."

What’s included?

The Thanksgiving table STEM challenge includes: 

  • Detailed teacher notes that include suggestions for facilitating the project during in-person, distance, and hybrid learning
  • PDF, Google, and Easel versions of the student project packets
  • A slideshow to assist with lesson facilitation
  • A rubric for easy grading
  • End-of-project celebration certificates

These projects follow the engineering design process allowing students to practice their teamwork and problem-solving skills. The building materials are flexible, meaning you can use what you have on hand! Blocks, clean recyclables, school supplies, etc.

Grab this resource today so you can take a break from planning and know your students will still be learning and having fun as you enjoy the holiday season!

Want more fun seasonal activities?

Save money when you buy seasonal STEM bundles! Then you’ll have fun projects ready-to-go all year long!

This image shows a corn maze, bee house, candy bucket and hot cocoa cup STEM challenges. The text reads "STEM challenges for every season."

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Hi, I'm Trilby!

I help middle school educators like you facilitate high quality STEM lessons that engage and challenge students while saving time and energy.

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