Hands-On STEM Instruction and Assessment

This unit guides students in designing, implementing, and assessing inquiry- and engineering-based STEM lessons using low-cost materials, physical computing, and digital tools. Learners will practice classroom management strategies, peer assessment, and community resource integration to prepare for postsecondary pathways and future teaching experiences.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze standards-aligned learning goals and the scientific method to design sequential, inquiry-driven STEM challenges (e.g., tower, egg-drop, catapult) that incorporate engineering design principles
• Apply collaborative structures, assigned student roles, and peer-evaluation protocols to organize and manage team-based STEM activities and competitions
• Demonstrate integration of digital and physical technologies (coding, Tinkercad/3D printing, remote control systems, calculator and editing applications) into hands-on lessons while managing materials, safety, and assessment
• Evaluate university, nonprofit, corporate, and citizen-science resources as well as low-cost supply options to improve lesson design, document student learning, and support career/college readiness