Sled (or Sleigh) and Slope Winter STEM Challenge

Sled (or Sleigh) and Slope Winter STEM Challenge

$3.98

Working against a criteria/constraints list in partners or groups, students will build a sleigh and ramp designed to transport the sleigh the greatest possible distance. (Note: there is a “Sled & Slope” version of student handouts in case you prefer a winter / non-Christmas activity.)

Looking for a fun Christmas or winter activity that incorporates science, technology, engineering, and/or math? Winter STEM / STEAM Challenges are the perfect activities because they engage your students in brain-busting work disguised as fun!

The basic premise:

Working against a criteria/constraints list in partners or groups, students will build a sleigh and ramp designed to transport the sleigh the greatest possible distance. (Note: there is a “Sled & Slope” version of student handouts in case you prefer a winter / non-Christmas activity.)

Check out the video preview to see what is included in this resource (skip ahead to 5:57 to see what is included in the resource):

Note: If you are in a 1:1 classroom, you may prefer the
digital format, compatible with Google Slides ™.


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 Handouts
    • Post-design extension activities list
    • Link to a video walk-through of the challenge
  • Student Handouts – two sets: one for Sleigh & Slope and one for Sled & Slope
    • Criteria & Constraints List (color and black & white; editable version provided)
    • Design Analysis Handouts (2-page regular spacing and 4-page expanded spacing for primary students included) (color and black & white)
    • Discussion Questions (in color and B&W)
  • Extension templates
    • Design an Experiment: Reducing Friction (with sample answers)
    • Process Flow Map
    • Math Extension

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:

  • Cardboard, card stock, cereal box, or paper plates
  • Pipe cleaners (5 – 10)
  • Small bows (2)
  • Bows are to symbolize gifts; small candies can be substituted (If you’re doing the Sled & Slope version, you’ll need small people to ride the sleds. Think: little, plastic, green army men. Two riders will work well.)
  • Popsicle/craft sticks (10 – 15)
  • Rubber bands (5 – 10)
  • Foil (12 – 24 in.)
  • Straws (5 – 10)
  • Scissors
  • Tape (12 – 24 in.)
  • Ruler or measuring tape

Optional:

  • Wood scraps
  • Paper bags
  • Coffee filters
  • Plastic cutlery
  • Balloons (rocket boosters)
  • String
  • Cable ties

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

 

PRINTABLE MEGA BUNDLE

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.

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