Leprechaun Trap Challenge (STEM): St. Patrick's Day

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Leprechaun Trap Challenge (STEM) Instructions: Build a trap to catch a leprechaun using everyday materials. Follow the design process below! Objective: Encourage creativity, engineering skills, and problem-solving by designing a functional trap that could catch a mischievous leprechaun. Planning Sheet: Materials List: What will you use? (e.g., paper, string, tape, cardboard, LEGOs, pipe cleaners, cups, paper towel rolls, craft sticks, aluminum foil, etc.) Sketch Your Design: Draw how your trap will work, labeling key parts and mechanisms. Trap Mechanism: How will your trap trigger when the leprechaun enters? Will it use a pulley, lever, or hidden entrance? Will you include bait like gold coins, glitter, or candy? Building Phase: Work on assembling your trap using the selected materials. Testing & Improvements: Try triggering the trap multiple times. Identify any weaknesses and refine the design. Reflection Questions: What was the most challenging part of building the trap? What ...
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Increase Student Participation

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How do you increase classroom participation?

Create a Safe and Inclusive Environment

Foster a classroom atmosphere where students feel safe to express their thoughts and ideas without fear of criticism or ridicule.
Active Learning Techniques
Incorporate active learning strategies such as group discussions, debates, role-playing, and problem-solving activities.
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Pose open-ended questions that require critical thinking and elaboration.
Use Technology Wisely
Utilize digital platforms for collaborative projects and discussions, allowing students to participate in ways that align with their preferences and skills.
Feedback and Encouragement
Provide constructive feedback on students' contributions, highlighting the positive aspects of their participation, and gently address areas for improvement.
Active Listening and Empathy
Demonstrate active listening skills by genuinely paying attention to what students say, maintaining eye contact, and acknowledging their input.
Peer Collaboration
Encourage collaboration by assigning group projects, cooperative learning activities, or peer teaching sessions.
Set Clear Expectations
Establish clear expectations for participation in your classroom, including how often and in what manner students should contribute.
Assessment and Recognition
Incorporate participation into your grading system. Students must understand that their engagement contributes to their overall grade.
Not all students will participate at the same level or in the same way. It's important to be flexible for different personalities and learning styles.


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