Welcome (back) to the

STEM PLC

Presented by Joanna Epstein

Outcomes

What is an exemplary STEM lesson?

How can we integrate RELA and Math?

Individual samples

The Paper TowerA tower is, “an exceptionally tall building or part of a building or an exceptionally tall structure used for some purpose.”

The Task: Design & build the tallest free standing tower using

only:• 1 Sheet of paper• Clear Tape• Scissors (to cut the paper)

You may NOT tape the tower to any surface.

Each tower will be required to free stand for at least 5 seconds!!!

Integration

•What math and/or science terms did you use?

• Why is this considered a STEM lesson?

• Math & RELA extensions?

Habits/skillsHabits We See Habits We Want to See

Verbal instruction Hands-on/discovery

Not invested in learning Pride/ownership of learning

Accept facts and info. as is Inquisitive

Easily distracted Engaged/focused

Lack perseverance/give-up Determination

Expect things to come easily Willing to work hard to succeed

Don’t handle stress well Able to work/thrive under a deadline/pressure

Extrinsically motivated Intrinsically motivated

Lack of experience/prior knowledge

Strong foundation

Exemplary LessonAnimal Expo

What makes this an exemplary STEM lesson?

Could this be modified for your classroom?

Would this unit help students develop the habits we’re seeking?

Sharing

Take 2 minutes:

Share the lesson you brought today with someone next to you

Discuss how it could be transformed into a STEM lesson

STEM Lesson Work in groups of 2-3 to create a:

1. Stand-alone STEM activity

2. STEM extension to an existing lesson.

3. RELA/Math extensions to a STEM activity

Keep in mind that we are looking for lessons that are inquiry-based, involve problem-solving and creative

thinking.

Resources

Open the CAMPUS folder and then the STEM PLC folder. In it you will find:

•A template you can use for writing

•RELA & Math standards by grade

•Exemplary unit: Animal Expo

•Links to STEM activities and ideas

Using Laptop

Login using HCPSS\username, password

Go to the CAMPUS folder (next to Hand In)

Open the STEM PLC folder

Drag out whatever docs you need

EXIT Ticket Save your document to the desktop (make sure all

of your names are on it somewhere)

Click on the Hand In folder

Scroll down to open in finder and click (circle with the arrow)

Find my blue folder and double click to open

Drag saved document in (you can also e-mail it to yourself)