Don't we just love to decorate our classrooms! I have a Pinterest board (and you probably do, as well) that is devoted to cute decor. Unfortunately, a few years ago when I needed to decorate my STEM classroom, I could not find models that resembled an elementary lab. I wanted it to be ... READ the POST
How-To Tips for Successful Teamwork
Teamwork - the most interesting dynamic of STEM challenges! And, the one that creates all kinds of interesting dilemmas! When my students trooped into my lab for the first time (five years ago) I seated them at our lab tables and explained what we would be doing and also let ... READ the POST
Problem-Solving – The Heart of Stem –
Problem-solving is truly the best part of STEM for me! It's watching kids "figure things out". Problem-solve, rethink, and do it again. Let's face it! Solving problems is what STEM is all about. Everything the students do leads to solving a problem and then another and then another. But, ... READ the POST
Improving STEM Projects (An Important Step)
Improving STEM projects can be frustrating and then it becomes fascinating. Students will encounter so many unexpected things as they design and build. It is so amazing to watch their thought processes and the improvements they attempt. Stick with me as I share some examples of improvements and ... READ the POST
Making the Most of Materials in STEM
This post about making the most of STEM materials came about because the number one, absolute, most-asked question I receive from my readers and those interested in STEM resources have the same topic. MATERIALS! Where do I get materials? How much will this cost? What if I do not have the ... READ the POST
Is the Engineering Design Process Really Important?
As a teacher, I am sure you have been overwhelmed! The last week of school, the first week of school, right before report cards go out, parent conference week, during an observation, and so many more occasions are when we all get that feeling that it's just too much. That is the exact situation I ... READ the POST