STEM Challenge: Build a Roller Coaster
In this one time class, your child will use so many skills (such as critical and creative thinking and problem solving) to build their own paper roller coaster!
Heather Pierson BA TESOL TEFL
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(684)
What's included
1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
STEM challenges are some of my favorite types of classes, as I love watching children use so many crucial skills as they work on their challenge. We will begin class with a discussion about roller coasters. We will share whether we like them or not, as well as watch a short video of one in action. I will share the challenge with the students, giving them simple instruction that leaves out details. Details take away one of the best parts of a STEM challenge; creativity! Each student will have the same materials, and we will discuss cutting and taping options, but everyone will be given the freedom to make their roller coaster however they want it. This may be one with a lot of twists and turns, maybe a very steep drop, or even a long coaster that goes off the table. The possibilities are endless! During construction time, we will have a discussion about things we like and dislike about coasters and share experiences we've had with them. We will also be able to ask each other for help or advice if needed. Once the coasters are finished, students will take turns sharing theirs, explaining how it works! I am a very animated and interactive teacher, which makes learning fun! I ask questions throughout the class to foster thinking and to make sure everyone understands what is being taught or discussed. There is plenty of time for the students to talk to each other, as well as ask me questions.
Learning Goals
Students will use critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, imagination, fine motor skills, teamwork, and so much more. The goal is to build a roller coaster without detailed directions.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
If your child struggles with cutting on their own, parential guidance is required.
Supply List
Construction paper, tape (glue is okay if you don't have it. Just takes longer to dry), scissors, markers.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined May, 2020
5.0
684reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hello! My name is Ms.Heather! I am married to Kenny, and we have a beautiful four year old boy, Alyas! My family and I are full-time living in a travel trailer, traveling the country! I was a Pre-K and Kindergarten teacher for 5+ years, have taught ESL online for 4 years to children ages 3-16 in China, and was the Director of a Developmental Day School for 3 years! I have a B.A. in Psychology with a Minor in Child Development from Ashford University. I absolutely love children and I have a passion for helping them learn! I believe every child is unique, and I make sure to keep this in mind during my teaching! I like to see each child's personality come out through the activity/craft, and not have everything look just like the other student's work. When working on my lessons, I think outside the box in order to make it fun and engaging for all of the students! Children tend to want to learn when they are having fun doing it. I love a challenge and I truly enjoy seeing a child overcome something they work so hard at! I am a very patient teacher and I enjoy having fun with the children while we learn! I was very shy before I started my teaching career, and what helped me break out of my shell was being silly, so I enjoy doing this with my class too! When planning my lessons, I make sure to give myself enough time to get through the whole lesson, but I also allow for flexibility, as lesson plans will not always go as planned. Children like to talk and I see nothing wrong with this, as we can learn just as much talking as we can with me teaching from the lesson itself! I like to have interactive classes, where all children are involved and enjoying themselves! If your child is shy and does not want to talk, that is okay too!Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$11
per classMeets once
45 min
Completed by 2 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 5-9
3-6 learners per class
