Our first and second period learners, focused on building the longest chain, using only a sheet of paper, glue stick and a pair of scissors. Throughout the 15 minutes, students worked together and justifying their choices as to why their idea or suggestion was the better route to take. It was interesting to watch both Algebra and 8th grade math students work together. Many groups jumped right into creating, while others discussed what they should do first. By the end of the 15 minutes, we had chains wrapped around our cafeteria, measuring which group had created the longest chain!
As groups began to measure their chains, discussions evolved as to what the definition of a chain is.
Learners in 3rd period focused on building the tallest tower, given a file folder, tape and a pair of scissors. This group brought a various levels of experience, as my current 3/4 students have had multiple experiences with STEM challenges and having to think "outside of the box." As I walked up and down the walkway between our cafeteria tables, students were asking questions if they could cut the folder, how tall could the tower be. Many kids were afraid to "make" changes to the file folder and at first just rolled the folder. As they looked around, students quickly realized that there were no definite directions. It's all about creativity!
Our 6th period group consisted of both Algebra and 8th grade math learners. Again, the vast amounts of experience brought a new level of engagement for most. I wonder if some of the learners who had little experience with a hands-on lesson chose to remain "quiet" during the 15 minutes, while those who have done similar investigations took control of their group and guided their peers!
As the conclusion of our building time, we had a great discussion as to what made the tallest tower. We had 2 groups that built from the table to the ceiling and taped their tower to the ceiling....again thinking outside of the box. We all agreed they were definitely the most creative in their thinking!
Today's STEM challenge not only provided an optimal learning opportunity for our learners, but also for us teachers! I'm grateful to work with a team of teachers who is willing to step out of their comfort zone and try new ideas, even when we have to be flexible as far as grouping or our location. We modeled being solution seekers, rather than problem finders which ultimately is what 21st century learning entails. I love the conversations that we had as educators as far as why certain events happened within our classes.
We quickly looked up the meaning and decided that we needed to have two winners,
in this challenge!
 |
| Longest Chain Link |
 |
| Longest Chain |
15 minutes were up and here are the winners! Each group said their success was because they were able to listen and collaborate with each other. From a teacher's perspective it was interesting to watch the confidence of our learners explode as they stepped outside of the box and began cutting their file folders. Ultimately, each group was a winner and accepted the challenge!
Our 6th period group consisted of both Algebra and 8th grade math learners. Again, the vast amounts of experience brought a new level of engagement for most. I wonder if some of the learners who had little experience with a hands-on lesson chose to remain "quiet" during the 15 minutes, while those who have done similar investigations took control of their group and guided their peers!
As the conclusion of our building time, we had a great discussion as to what made the tallest tower. We had 2 groups that built from the table to the ceiling and taped their tower to the ceiling....again thinking outside of the box. We all agreed they were definitely the most creative in their thinking!
 |
| Thinking Outside the Box |
 |
| Our winners that followed the guidelines! |
Today's STEM challenge not only provided an optimal learning opportunity for our learners, but also for us teachers! I'm grateful to work with a team of teachers who is willing to step out of their comfort zone and try new ideas, even when we have to be flexible as far as grouping or our location. We modeled being solution seekers, rather than problem finders which ultimately is what 21st century learning entails. I love the conversations that we had as educators as far as why certain events happened within our classes.
Today served as a reminder of why I love being a teacher, as well as a life-long learner!
No comments