In this hands-on course, elementary students will meet once a week to complete a fun new activity that corresponds with our monthly themes (see below for themes and sample activities).  

Each class will open up with a fun ice-breaker including "Would you rather?" questions, themed show-and-share, and sharing fun facts about ourselves with the class.  Then, we will move right onto the hands-on activity of the day.  Engineering challenges will include a brief planning time before we build.  Each student will sketch their plan before we begin.  An optional planning sheet will be included. As each learner works, we will discuss the principles behind the activity in an age-appropriate way.  We will also build resilience and learn from mistakes if our project doesn't turn out the way we imagined!  Each student will get a chance in the spotlight to show off their work.

January Theme: Snowmen
Week of 1/16: Exploding Snowman (ziplock, baking soda, vinegar)
Week of 1/23: Melting Snowman (Cornstarch, misc. craft supplies)
Week of 1/30: Marshmallow Snowman (mini or regular marshmallows, toothpicks or dry spaghetti)

Upcoming themes: February- hearts; March- music & sound

The STEAM activities are thoughtfully selected to include simple household materials and ordered to minimize the need to refresh your supplies.  A list of supplies broken down by week will be provided 5-7 days before the new theme begins.

My teaching style is upbeat, patient, and kind.  Every learner is encouraged to participate, but I understand that some students may prefer to work quietly or observe the activities.

Past:
September: Apples 
        -Apple boats (week of 9/14)
        -Apple towers (week of 9/20)
        -plant life cycle with apple seeds (9/27)
   October: Pumpkins
       -Pumpkin tower (week of 10/4)
       -Pumpkin insides exploration (week of 10/11)
       -Erupting pumpkin (week of 10/18)
       -Seed launcher (week of 10/25)
   November: Leaves 
       -Leaf rubbing (week of 11/1)
       -Leaf chromatography (week of 11/8)
       -Coffee filter leaves (week of 11/15)
       *No meeting the week of Thanksgiving*
   December: Snow 
       -Snowstorm in a bottle (week of 11/29)
       -Build an igloo (week of 12/8)
       -Snowflake design (week of 12/15)
     *No meeting the week of Christmas*