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.)
Note: This is the digital format, compatible with Google Slides ™.
For the print version, click here.
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 Slides – two sets: one for Sleigh & Slope and one for Sled & Slope
- Criteria & Constraints List (editable)
- Design Analysis
- Discussion Questions
- Extension templates
- Process flow map
- Create & solve math problems based on designs
- Video/website linked slides
- Design an Experiment: Reducing Friction (with sample answers)
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 print format and as part of the Christmas/Winter and the Mega STEM Challenge bundles. Click through below:
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