STEAM Maker Challenge Bundle (8.5 x 11)

This bundle includes all you need for 6 STEAM explorations that can be used in a variety of ways, from 15-20 minute challenges to multiple-period explorations.

Designed with emerging English language speakers in mind, these activities can be used in mainstream as well as bilingual classrooms, with learners from various backgrounds and levels of ability. They are also designed to introduce or reinforce different language objectives, such as the use of

• Comparative and superlative adjectives
• Simple present and can to describe characters' looks, personalities, and abilities
• Vocabulary for shapes, construction, product evaluation, patterns
• Sequencing adverbs (first, next, then, etc.)
• Modal verbs for game rules (can/can't; have to)
• Present or future conditional statements with if...then...

The activities are also designed to supplement or introduce other areas of academic study, promoting content objectives in math, science, ELA, art, and social studies, and SEL, with topics such as

• Geometry (angles, shapes, symmetry, etc.)
• Patterns and algorithmic thinking
• Measurements
• Physical science (gravity, motion, friction, etc.)
• Creative writing
• Storytelling
• Character development and comparison
• Homes and lifestyles in other cultures and civilizations
• Product design and empathy with the user
• Teamwork and collaboration

Bundle contents include the following:

Card set with 6 STEAM Maker Challenges and Extensions

The challenges can be done with a variety of simple materials, individually, in pairs, or in small groups. They can be used in many different ways, such as:

• A warm-up to begin class
• Group collaboration projects
• Independent learning at a mini maker station during free choice time
• Activities to introduce or expand on target language or topics
• A hands-on experience that helps students make real-world connections

Each challenge has an optional extension card, which can be attached as a reverse side, or saved for later. These extensions offer three prompts to pick and choose from, promoting critical thinking, design skills, and oracy. They can also easily connect to or enhance lessons in other areas, such as ELA, Social Studies, Art, and Math.

Handouts for 6 Communicative Activities

These focus on developing oracy, design skills, critical thinking, and teamwork, alongside STEAM skills. After learners construct something--alone or in groups--they are guided to look closely at the product and think carefully about the experience. These tasks are followed by an interactive activity in which they engage other peers, or in some personal reflection that can be shared with the class or documented, with a picture of the product, in a journal or portfolio.

PowerPoint slides

To be used alone or to support the cards and handouts

Bonus: 3 Tic-Tac-Toe Choice Boards

These are great for early finishers and independent work, and can support language objectives as well as develop STEAM skills. Use for individual or group work, or a competitive game in pairs in which partners take turns making something to claim a space. As a choice board for individuals or groups, students choose from the mini challenges and complete one at a time. Three completed tasks in a row wins, or progresses to the next level.

Items can be made with any simple materials, then disassembled for re-use

Customize these with a free template, adding vocabulary or items related to a unit theme.