The Art of Making: STEM Spring Creations (4 Weeks)
What's included
4 live meetings
3 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Typically, students will need to cut items out prior for class.Class Experience
This four-week STEAM class invites young learners to create crafts that focus on nature and forces, like wind and propulsion. Each class will provide learners with the opportunity to create something new. From beautiful monarch butterflies to aerodynamic airplanes, this class serves as a wonderful introduction to art. Students will learn how to transform common household items into masterpieces. These projects will serve as wonderful skill builders and confidence boosters as students experience the inevitable pride of seeing something they've made with their very own hands. Projects will vary; however, the following is a sample schedule. Every other offering of this class will repeat. Day 1 Circle Glider We'll begin class with a brief discussion on airplanes and how they stay in the air. Then, we’ll use a printout, straw, construction paper, tape, and coloring tools to create gliders that fly! Day 2 Soaring Rockets We'll begin class with a brief class discussion about rockets and propulsion. We may also watch a short launch video. Then, we'll use a printout, bendy straw, paper, scissors, tape, glue stick, and coloring tools to create rockets that actually lift-off. Day 3 Colorful Hot Air Balloon We’ll begin class with a discussion about hot air balloons - what they are, how they rise, and how they come back down. Then, we'll use construction paper, scissors, yarn, and glue to create a colorful hot air balloon. Day 4 Rainbow Suncatcher We’ll begin class with a lesson on rainbows – how they’re made, the colors they contain, and why and under which conditions we can see them. We may also watch a short video. Then, we'll use a printout, scissors, gift tissue paper, and contact paper to create a rainbow suncatcher. OR Day 1 DIY Puffy Paint Earth We'll begin our 3-part lesson on renewable resources with a discussion about our planet, earth. In honor of Earth Day, we'll also talk about conservation. Then, we'll use a microwave, flour, baking powder, salt, food coloring, cardstock (not construction paper), and water to a beautifully textured earth. Day 2 3D Sun Wand Building on the lesson from the previous class, we'll have a brief class discussion about the sun (the closest star) and solar power. Then, we'll use a printout, scissors, construction paper, skewer, and glue to create a 3D Sun wand. Day 3 Working Pinwheel Wrapping up our 3-part lesson on renewable resources, we'll begin class with a discussion about wind turbines and the power of the wind. Then, we'll use a printout, construction paper, scissors, bendy straw, two tiny rubber bands, and a glue stick to create a working pinwheel. Day 4 3D Butterfly Life Cycle We'll have a brief class discussion about the life cycle of the monarch butterfly. We'll also watch a short video. Then, we'll use a printout, scissors, white glue, pom poms, paper plate, and gift tissue to create a 3D butterfly life cycle model. NOTE: Class requires a minimum of 5 students to move forward. If low enrollment becomes a concern, I'll reach out to parents directly with options that include a full refund.
Learning Goals
Students will learn aspects of several different sciences including lepidopterology, astronomy, physics, chemistry, environmental, aerodynamics and aerospace engineering. They'll also learn how to follow step by step instructions. They will practice fine motor skills and gain experience in using scissors, glue, paint, and other art supplies.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Parental guidance is required for the use of scissors. Parents may also need to help students with the following crafts:
1. Pinwheel craft - Using the hole puncher for the pinwheel craft. The holes can be punched ahead of time.
2. Puffy paint craft - Tying off the Ziploc bag with a rubber band and using the microwave.
Supply List
Every project will require the use of a printer. Additionally, most crafts require construction paper, scissors, and glue sticks or Elmer's glue. A project specific supply list will be sent a few days before each class meeting.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
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I’m a lifelong maker. When I was 4 years old, my mom, who stayed home with me, designated Tuesdays as craft day. I was elated! Growing up, we had a set of craft books with a volume for each letter from A to Z. On Tuesdays, I got to pick one craft out of the 1000s available. Then, my mom and I would make it together. I’ve been a maker ever since.
Many years later, I’m a homeschool mom whose love of making has only been enhanced by what I've learned in the many classrooms in which I've had the pleasure to attend or teach.
As an experienced Outschool teacher, I love helping students explore learning in a fun and immersive way. I’m excited to share my love of science and making with your learners. I can’t wait to see what we'll create together.
Degrees
BA English, Creative Writing
BA Corporate Communication
MS Management, Public Relations.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$56
for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
45 min
Completed by 9 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 3-7
5-9 learners per class