Elementary education is a pivotal time in a child’s education journey. It is when students form preferences, gain confidence, and find a passion for learning. When children are exposed to subjects during early childhood education, they are more likely to feel comfortable continuing to take courses in that subject area. Early implementation of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is key to student success in these complex subject areas. As early as kindergarten, educators can begin implementing STEM lessons with students that introduce key STEM concepts – setting a foundation for future lessons grounded in Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).
In this article, you will explore 23 easy-to-implement STEM lessons educators and/or parents can facilitate with elementary-age students to spark curiosity in STEM.
There are a variety of STEM activities that can be facilitated with students that use minimal ingredients – many of which can be found in the common household. Below is a list of liquid-based science activities to introduce students to STEM concepts:
Engineering is an interactive, hands-on area of STEM that uses knowledge from all areas – from technology to mathematics – to create and develop new, innovative ideas. As educators, engineering lessons are a great way to get students thinking critically about the world around them, presenting the opportunity to introduce the Engineering design process (EDP). Here are engaging activities to turn your students into engineers:
Math is all around us! There are real-world applications to the math lessons that help keep students engaged and better understand what they are learning matters. Below are activities for educators looking to find creative ways to introduce math into their curriculum:
Technology is a rapidly growing and changing industry. It is more important than ever to ensure students are fluent in these new technologies to prepare them for their future careers. Here are three (3) engaging technology lessons for elementary age students:
Creating cross-curricular learning opportunities for students has been proven to increase engagement and retention of lessons. Through music and sound, educators can introduce students to STEM lessons in a creative way. Below are activities that combine sound and science to get students excited about STEM learning.
The STEM learners of today are the STEM professionals of tomorrow. This fact emphasizes the importance of educating students about the environment and world around them. STEM has a major impact on the advancements society has and continues to make. Below are environmental-based STEM lessons to improve students’ STEM literacy and introduce them to the connections between STEM and the environment.
Astronomy lessons open up students’ minds to the vastness of the universe. At the elementary level, students find this fascinating and the lessons promote their curiosity. In this section, we highlight astronomy lessons for beginners, setting a strong foundation for challenging lessons in the future.
STEM Sports® is a K-8 education company that provides standards-aligned curricula. Each STEM Sports® lesson uses sports as a way to facilitate hands-on STEM lessons. If you are an educator looking to add structured, established STEM lessons into your curriculum map, click here to explore STEM Sports® curricula offerings.
Engaging in STEM lessons early in education is key to student success in their education and future careers. By incorporating engaging STEM activities into the elementary curriculum, we create a strong educational foundation that promotes students to continue taking STEM courses and following their passions. Through the activities highlighted in this blog, educators can get their students engaged in STEM learning in the classroom today!
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