Looking for Groundhog Day activities that are more than just an activity? This STEM / STEAM challenge will make you wonder why you ever though Groundhog Day wasn’t worth celebrating!

The basic premise:

In groups, students will create groundhog shadows, searching for the perfect combinations of light source angles, distances, and even groundhog accessories to meet the specified shadow criteria & constraints. Shadows will be traced and and turned into street art/graffiti. (Includes modifications, grades 2-8.)

Be sure to check out the preview to get a sense of your extension options!

 

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Note: This is the digital format, compatible with Google Slides ™.

For the print version, click here.

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Resource includes:

• NGSS aligned standards, Grades 2 – 8

• Teacher Tips:
  • Links to my 5-part video series on getting started with STEM challenges
  • Materials and timing
  • Criteria & Constraints (including modifications to increase difficulty for older students)
  • Measuring results
  • Universal STEM Challenge Notes & How to Use Student Slides
  • Post-design extension activities list
  • Link to a video walk-through of the challenge

• Student Handouts/Slides
  • Two sizes of groundhog templates (for the build portion of the design)
  • Criteria & Constraints List (editable version provided)
  • Design Analysis
  • Discussion Questions
  • 2 Data Table Options (editable)
  • Student-facing video directions

• Extension Slides
  • Links to “clean” and controversial real-world graffiti examples
  • Shadow Mysteries activity
  • 3 Mini Shadow Challenges (could be done instead of the main activity; editable)
  • 3 Mini Shadow Labs: students use the scientific method to isolate and test shadow-making variables (editable; comes with sample answer keys)
  • Graffiti writing template
  • Process flow map
  • Create & solve math problems based on designs
  • Video/website linked slides

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Sample/suggested materials for each student or group:

(Materials you’ll need to do the activity are easily modified. You don’t need to provide all of the following materials. Select a subset and/or add in your own ideas.)

For each student or group:

• Light source (flashlights or the flashlight app, if students have cell phones)
• Paper for shadow tracing (use butcher paper, poster board, or copy paper)
• Groundhog cutouts (included)
• Construction paper
• Craft sticks/Pipe Cleaners (4 – 6)
  • For groundhog template handles and optional accessories
• Masking tape (~12 – 24 in.)
• Measuring Tape / Yard stick
• Protractors (if measuring light source angles)
• Scissors
• Markers

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This resource is also available in print format and as part of the Late Winter and the Mega STEM Challenge bundles. Click through below:

 

If you prefer to purchase on TPT, click here. 

Note: Any coupon codes you received for subscribing to the email are for this site and will not work on TpT.