Race Cars using STEM

Planning  our race car designs.  I set up the kids in random groups of three.  I was very impressed on how well they got along.  There were discussions on materials and their purposes and what the cars should look like.  The lesson was from Teach Engineering.  They were given a budget and ha a math component to the lesson.

Once they shared their design plans, the building of the prototypes began.  The kids learned quickly that their plans had to be redesigned.  I learned that Elmer's Glue should not be an option.  I did end up pulling out the hot glue gun for repairs.  My students spent several days building and testing.

Race day was so much fun!  We had a few duds but for the most part...it was a huge success.  I plan on using more projects from this website.  My husband and brother-in-law made the racetracks our of coil stock which is for siding houses.

The lesson I used was from the website below.  It has the lessons, powerpoints, printables, etc.  I plan on using other STEM projects next year.  Click link below.

Engineering for Efficiency

Fifth Grade Math Maps

I had my classroom create Math Maps for the skills that they learned this year.  We made posters to hang up for our student showcase last week.  It was also a great way to review their notes before our state testing.  They had to add vocabulary, pictures, equations, hints, etc.  Here are a few samples.  They came out awesome!!!

Simple Machines and Foldable Freebie

I love teaching simple machines!  The kids are working in groups researching and creating Frayer Model Vocabulary posters on one simple machine to share with the class.  They each had a simple machine model to use.

While groups were presenting their posters they took notes on a simple machine foldable that I made.

Click for Link

This week we will be making cars and ramps.  It should be fun!!!