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Showing posts from November, 2023

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 ...

How to Arrange and Decorate a Classroom

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  Organize the Space Arrange desks or tables in a way that facilitates easy movement and clear sightlines. Have designated areas for essential items like supplies, backpacks, and a central focal point for presentations or discussions. Create a Positive Environment Add personal touches to make the space inviting. Use bright colors, inspirational quotes, or student work. Consider setting up a "classroom culture" bulletin board to highlight shared values and goals. Student Involvement Get your students involved in decorating. Consider creating a collaborative art project or letting them contribute to bulletin boards with their own work. This personalizes the space, and fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the classroom. Thematic Decor Choose a theme that aligns with your subject or interests and incorporate it into your decorations. Such as an academic topic, favorite book, or a broader concept like "exploration" or "teamwork," a cohesive theme can tie e...