Mrs. Van Aken’s Classroom Edit display name

About my class

Critical thinking is key in our fast-paced world of science and technology. My 5th-grade students begin the year focusing on inventors and the engineering design process. Engineers solve everyday problems, develop possible solutions, create prototypes, and test out their solutions. Through STEM projects students love to learn the engineering process and feel like engineers themselves! Currently, we are limited to STEM activities that require very limited supplies like paper, pencils, a popsicle sticks, toilet paper rolls and newspaper. Providing my students with real STEM kits which include prototype materials and problems will engage all my students in meaningful learning opportunities. We will use the kits together as a whole group, with partners, during recess and as extension activities to challenge students who complete classwork early or need an extra push.