🌞 Low-Prep STEM Activities
With statewide testing coming up and summer vacation just around the corner, it’s the perfect time for simple, low-prep STEM experiences that spark curiosity, get kids thinking critically, and bring on the fun!
Here are a few easy, hands-on challenges that work across grade levels:
Paper Chain Challenge: Using only paper, scissors, and tape (or glue/stapler), build the longest paper chain possible in 15–20 minutes!
Paper Stack Challenge: Give students 3 pieces of paper, some tape, and a few books. Which column shape—circle, triangle, or square—can hold the most weight?
Scratch Coding Challenge: Have students use Scratch to program a Sprite to move, or create a short animated conversation between characters.
Build a Sturdy Nest: Using natural materials (twigs, grass, mud) or craft supplies (TP tubes, string, paper), design a bird’s nest that could hold eggs.
100 Cup Tower Challenge: With just a sleeve of plastic cups, see who can build the tallest free-standing tower!
LEGO Marble Run: Challenge students to create a 2D maze on a baseplate that a marble can roll through—great for teamwork and spatial reasoning.
What low-prep STEM activities are always a hit with your students?