STEM Activities to Use for Different Age Groups

What is STEM? The letters stand for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and it is an acronym used to represent all of these fields interrelated together. There is an increasing number of jobs that incorporate all of these skills and many schools are starting to create and develop STEM lessons and classes that help students learn in more depth how to apply these skills.

Occupations in the United States in STEM fields are growing very quickly and students of all ages should be made aware of this. According to the United States Department of Labor Statistics, the projected employment increases between 2014-2024 are below:

Computer and Information Systems Managers 15.4%
Personal Financial Advisors 29.6%
Computer and Information Analysts 20.5%
Web Developers 26.6%
Operations Research Analysts 30.2%
Statisticians 33.8%
Biomedical Engineers 23.1%
Forensic Science Technicians 26.6%
Physician assistants 30.4%
Physical therapists 34%
Computer Control Programmers and Operators 17.7%

(http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_102.htm)

Just to name a few!

It’s so important that students understand how these fields work together, especially younger students since learning can have such an impression upon them. Educators, parents and family members can help by providing students of all ages information about STEM, fun activities to do at home, and lessons to provide in school. STEM lessons can involve cooperative learning and discovery learning to mix together Science, Technology, Engineering and Math so that students can collect data, analyze, brainstorm, create and use higher-level thinking skills.

Below is a list of STEM activities and lessons for students of all ages!

STEM Activities/Lessons for Elementary School Kids

Tornados and Rain Clouds

Water Pollution for Kids

Paper Roller Coasters

Build a Bride Challenge

Measurement with Playdough