Vivify STEM Blog

Qweebi: Transforming STEM Education with a Virtual Makerspace

In the world of STEM education, hands-on learning is essential—but it’s also one of the biggest challenges for teachers. Between expensive materials, limited class time, and logistical headaches, running engaging STEM projects in the classroom can be overwhelming. Enter Qweebi, an innovative startup that’s revolutionizing how STEM is taught through a virtual makerspace. Learn how Claire used it in her classroom and how you can too!

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How to Integrate STEM into Your Gifted & Talented Program

Are you looking to elevate your Gifted and Talented program with exciting, hands-on STEM learning? Lauren shares her journey into STEM education, key similarities between STEM and GT learning goals, successful project ideas, and real-world examples from my classroom. Let’s dive into how you can seamlessly integrate STEM into your GT program for deeper, more engaging learning experiences!

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Space Engineering: A 5E Science Unit on Heat Transfer

Did you know that when space crafts re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, that they travel at speeds of up to 17,500 miles per hour and heat up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit? How does NASA keep its astronauts safe in spaceships when re-entering Earth’s atmosphere?

Get your students engaged about the science of heat transfer with a 5E STEM challenge that culminates with students creating a heat shield to protect a space craft and (chocolate) crew! This engineering challenge covers concepts about convection, conduction, and radiation with hands-on activities, including investigating different methods to melt an ice cube.

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Building Bricks STEM Challenge: Engage Young Minds Through Hands-On Learning

Do you have a bunch of building bricks or LEGO® blocks in your classroom? Are you looking for low-prep STEM stations for younger students? Check out our free Building Bricks Challenge Mats, a perfect way to introduce K-5 students to STEM! Read all the details including materials, set-up, and lesson plan to implement with your students.

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Incorporating Engineering Practices into Texas Science Classrooms

If you're a Texas educator, you’ve likely heard about the new science standards that now include engineering practices. But you might be wondering: What exactly are they, and how can you integrate them into your teaching?

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Brick by Brick: Intro to Criteria and Constraints

The world’s greatest superhero needs your help! Your mission is to create an exact replica of their top-secret headquarters. But there’s a catch: the villain has stolen all the blueprints! It’s time to put on your engineering hats, strategize with your team, and rebuild the superhero’s headquarters brick by brick. The fate of this mission depends on you—let’s get started!

The Brick by Brick: Intro to Criteria & Constraints lesson builds communication skills, increases understanding of the engineering design process, and is a great way to connect to authentic engineering work. Learn more below and find this lesson for FREE in our STEM resource library.

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Water STEM Activity: Design a Water Pipeline!

Water is one of the most vital resources on our planet, yet many students are unaware of the engineering marvels that ensure clean water reaches our taps daily. The water pipeline STEM challenge is an exciting way to introduce students to the crucial role of engineers in solving real-world problems while aligning with key educational standards.

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A Search for Life: Astro-Rover STEM Challenge

The Astro-Rover STEM Challenge is a classroom favorite, with many of my students calling it the highlight of their entire school year! What makes this space-themed unit unique is the way it blends science concepts and design thinking into one truly interdisciplinary package. The Astro-Rover STEM lesson, perfect for middle school classrooms, captivates students with the thrilling topic of alien life while aligning with key NGSS science standards, such as understanding how the presence of water can indicate potential for life.

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