Snowflake STEM Project-Based Learning: Symmetry, Data Collection (5 Day Lesson)

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

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