3 Low-Prep Paper STEM Challenges

What is STEM?

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. A STEM activity is any hands-on activity that incorporates two or more of these distinct but related fields of study. A STEM challenge is an activity that encourages kids to explore, design, problem solve, and test within the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

STEM activities and challenges are a great way to add more hands-on learning to your school days. STEM education strengthens problem solving and critical thinking skills and makes learning fun!

In this post I share instructions for three STEM activities that require nothing more than paper, tape, scissors, and a little creativity!

Test Paper Airplanes

Challenge your kids to make and test different types of paper airplanes. Encourage them to try some common types (look up instructions online or in a library book) and try some designs of their own. Use a measuring tape to measure the distance each airplane flew and record it on a piece of paper.

Ask your kids questions like: Which airplane design flew best? Why do you think this airplane flew so well?

You can extend the learning by encouraging your kids to do a little research about aerodynamics.

Paper Chain Challenge

This challenge is a great one to do in groups. Give each child a single piece of paper, a pair of scissors, and some tape. Challenge each child to make the longest paper chain that they can from their single piece of paper.

When everyone is finished lay the chains out side by side and have a group discussion. Which chain is longest? Use a measuring tape to measure its length. Why do you think this chain was so long? Did thick or thin rings make a longer chain? Did long or short rings make a longer chain? What other factors may have contributed to length?

Paper Tower Challenge

This one makes a great group challenge, but can be done with a single child as well. Give each child or group participating the same supplies: 10-15 pieces of paper, tape, and scissors. Challenge each group/participant to build the tallest free standing tower that they can with the supplies given to them. Afterward measure each tower and determine which is tallest. Discuss what about this tower allowed it to be so tall.

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