Description

Are you looking for more extensive hands-on STEM challenges for your students? Check out this Snowflake STEM project-based learning activity! This is a perfect STEM activity for the winter months! It’s aligned with language arts (ELA) standards, math standards (symmetry and data plots), and science / engineering standards (NGSS). I recommend this project for grades 3, 4, and 5.

Print & Digital Versions of the Student Pages are BOTH Included!

*A sample 5 day lesson plan and rubric is created. Student pages are included as well. It’s all inclusive!

Science Concepts

• Depending on the grade level, this project may meet standards under the following topics:
• Earth’s Systems
• Climate and Weather
• Natural Hazards

Math Concepts

• Data Tables / Data Collection
• Line Plots
• Symmetry

ELA Concepts

• Speaking and Listening: Discussion
• Main Idea & Key Details
• Text-Based Evidence

Can be used for:

• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.MD.B.2
• Make a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit (1/2, 1/4, 1/8).

Follow the process below to complete your project:

1. Read about how snowflakes form with the included passage.
2. Further research snowflakes (asking questions / citing sources).
3. Design a snowflake under certain parameters (engineering process).
4. Make your design better (revise).
5. Measure diameter (or width) and show symmetry (math).
6. Collect and display data (math).
7. Reflect.

Supplies: A supply letter to send home to parents is included. Check out the included blog post for more info on supplies (and links to buy the exact supplies I used).

• Borax
• pipe cleaners
• scissors
• pencils
• string
• large heat-safe cups or large jars
• measuring cups
• food coloring
• glitter (optional)

Rubric included!

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Bundles Available

Buy the Seasonal STEM project bundle and save money off of buying them individually!

Want WAY more awesome projects? Get unlimited access to EVERY GRADE LEVEL PBL and more features! (over 50% off!) – Includes this project!

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