STEM Challenges
These challenges turn household items into STEM kits!
There's no need to go to the store for a special STEM activity. Green Country STEM professionals and partners have created challenges to keep you safe at home while your mind travels to new places!
Challenge #1
Using items found around the house, see if you can make a hand lens to look at the finer details of the items.
Materials needed
- 2 pencils
- Clear, thin material such as plastic wrap or packing tape
- Straw
- Water
- Items to magnify
- Cup to hold water
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Challenge #2
Create a pattern using shapes, colors, and/or math!
Materials needed
- Paper
- Pen or pencil
- Crayons, markers, or colored pencils
Challenge #3
Create a parachute to slow down an egg as it falls!
Materials needed
- Trash bag or grocery bag
- 1 yard of tape
- 20 straws
- 1 rubber band
- 1 paper or plastic cup
- 4 yards of string
- 1 sandwich bag
- 1 egg
Challenge #4
Build a straw-powered rocket!
Materials needed
- Paper
- Straw
- Tape
- Scissors
- Notecard (optional)
- Measuring tool
Challenge #5
Get ready for the City Nature Challenge by building your own perspective box to explore the biodiversity in your backyard.
Materials needed
- Cardboard or paper
- Scissors
- Any space outdoors
Challenge #6
Learn about Archimedes, then create a tin foil boat!
Materials needed
- Aluminum foil
- Bowl or tub of water
- Items to weigh boat down (marbles, pennies, gravel)
Challenge #7
Build a super glider out of old boxes!
Materials needed
- Cardboard box
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
Challenge #8
Create new products and inventions!
Materials needed
- Box of items from around your house
Challenge #9
Use purple cabbage to discover the pH of items in your kitchen!
Materials needed
- Purple cabbage
- Blender
- Strainer
- Lemon juice
- Water
- Baking soda
