Help me give my students LEGO Education SPIKE Essential kits and Guidecraft Grippies to engage in hands-on STEAM activities that develop their problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork skills through the engineering design process.
Help my students dive into STEAM with LEGO Education SPIKE Essential kits and Guidecraft Grippies! These hands-on tools will empower students to engage in fun and challenging engineering projects that develop creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork.
One activity involves building balloon-powered cars.
Students will design and construct cars using simple materials and then test them to see how far they can travel using the power of air from a balloon. After testing, they will evaluate their designs, identifying any issues that caused the car to slow down or stop too soon. They’ll refine their prototypes, experimenting with adjustments like wheel size, balloon placement, or materials to make their vehicles more efficient. This activity not only teaches physics principles like force and motion but also encourages perseverance through trial and error.
In another activity, students will engage in bridge-building challenges. They’ll explore different types of bridges, such as suspension or beam bridges, and use the Guidecraft Grippies to design their own. Students will work in teams to build strong and stable bridges, testing them by adding weight or increasing their length. As they refine their designs, they’ll learn about balance, structure, and the importance of material choice in engineering. The hands-on nature of this activity promotes collaboration and fosters a deeper understanding of engineering principles.
These activities follow the engineering design process, where students are asked to identify a problem, brainstorm solutions, build a prototype, test their design, and make improvements. This process builds essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication—all while making learning engaging and fun.
With your help, I can provide my students with the tools they need to explore STEAM concepts and develop the skills necessary for future success. Thank you for supporting their growth and education!
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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