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How is Science Used in STEM? [STEM in Action Series] [ep.166]

How is Science Used in STEM? [STEM in Action Series] [ep.166]

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Episode Summary

Have you been thinking of some ways to purposefully plan and add science into your STEM lessons? In today’s episode, we are continuing with our STEM into Action series, with me sharing my insights and some practical lessons that answer the question, “How is science used in STEM?”

 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Standards to focus on for science lessons
  • Top Tools to Use
  • Lesson Ideas that use science as the main focus; project, station & 1 day lesson

Resources Mentioned:

Some items are linked to my Amazon Affiliate account. When you purchase through my link, there is no added cost to you, but I receive a small commission in return.

Episode Transcript: 

What are some ways to purposefully plan and effectively add science into your STEM lessons? We are continuing our STEM in Action series, where we kicked it off with guest experts in the field to help connect different elements of STEM and really focus on what STEM means and can look like in different capacities. For the second half of the series, I will be sharing my insights and some practical lessons that you can implement in your classroom. The next four episodes will focus on each letter of STEM, and these will all connect together and give you some practical ideas that you are really going to enjoy.

Welcome to the Elementary STEM Coach Podcast, a show that will help you with lesson ideas, systems, and actionable tips to apply to your classroom. I am your host, Naomi Meredith, a former classroom teacher turned current STEM teacher and coach. With over a decade of experience teaching and a master's degree in STEM leadership, I am here to coach you throughout the year to help you gain back more time to create innovative experiences for your students.

Grab your earbuds and let's get started. At the time of this recording, we are right in the middle of summer. Maybe some of you have been on summer break for a little while, or maybe some of you are just starting. Wherever you are, I get it. I understand. June has been a very busy month for me again. You probably know where I was last time in June, and this year has been very busy as well. I understand the busyness and all the cool things that you can do in summer.

Having on-demand trainings can be extremely helpful. If you're on the go or traveling, one of my favorite things to do is listen to trainings on airplanes or while using cardio machines at the hotel. I understand, like I said, and so I have some on-the-go trainings for you that are perfect for summertime. You don't have to attend live, but they can really help support your STEM instruction.

I have my STEM Teacher 101 course. So if you are getting started in STEM and don't know where to begin and want someone to tell you what to do before you even set up all the lessons, I invite you to join my STEM Teacher 101 course. That is a great place to start.

If you're looking for strategies on specific lesson planning or maybe you're thinking, “Oh, I want to host my school-wide video news this year,” or “I would love to host a STEM career day,” I have some workshops for you. All of those workshops are two hours, come with tons of resources, and they were live at the time. So I did have teachers who were there for the live trainings, except the STEM Career Day is 100% on demand.

However, you can hear that interaction and get access to all those resources right there. And again, be on your way with what you are looking for. You can find all of that linked in the show notes, or if you even just head to my website, NaomiMeredith.com, you'll see tabs that go along with the things that I'm talking about. That’s a great way to spend some time with me this summer, even when you are on the go.

When you're thinking about implementing science, the format of these next four lessons is going to have the same structure. So you know what to listen for and what to really think about. We are going to be talking about standards—what standards should you use when thinking about that part of STEM. Today we are talking about science. Then I’m going to share my top tools that I love using when it relates to that letter in STEM. Finally, I will give you some lesson ideas that are mostly focused on science.

Of course, they encompass all sorts of things cross-curricular, which is how you should be planning anyway. I'm very big on that. That is going to be the structure for these episodes. When it comes to standards, when you are really focusing on the science part of STEM, your state most likely has some sort of science standards that you should be focusing on. I like to base my lessons on the NGSS, the Next Generation Science Standards. Those are more widely used nationwide. Here in Colorado, some standards are based on the NGSS, but I like to teach with the NGSS so it's more universal. However, you need to look at the standards specific to your state and what you should be teaching at that grade level.

In the last episode with Nicole Aschen, episode 165, we touched on this as well. If you are limited on time with teaching, which we all are, but a lot of you teach one-day lessons, why not make it more purposeful by bouncing off what classroom teachers are doing and teaching with those standards? I was spoiled at times where I had more time with kids, but I always planned with standards no matter what. I would just give it a STEM twist. I will be sharing some lessons with you, but just know that when I am planning lessons, I am always planning with standards. It's ingrained in my soul.

Make sure you check out your science standards. When it comes to the top tools, this is hard to pick my favorite, but I do have a few favorites when it comes to the science part of things. One of my favorite tools, and I always used these, and some of these might sound very random, but they are things that I liked having on hand.

I have a little set of 3D toys or models of the life cycle of a ladybug. That is something that would come up all the time. I used it as an example or a model for something to show kids when talking about insects or life cycles. Having that model was something I pulled out all the time. Likewise, having similar hands-on models is one of my favorite things to show. I even taught an in-person STEM class the other day at my local coffee shop, and I was so excited it was sold out.

We were talking about camouflage and how ocean animals, specifically octopuses, but then we started talking about other ocean animals. The kids were very engaged, so I brought in real coral and real seashells that I had found while traveling. I love having those tangible hands-on things where kids can see, touch, and look at them to make sense of what they’re learning. I’ve even had times when people have given me things, and you can't keep everything, of course, but I had a parent ask me if I wanted to hold on to a wasp nest for a while. All the wasps were gone, and that was such a cool experience for the kids to see it. Some of them were scared, but I assured them the wasps were gone.

I even did a segment on our school-wide video news where I interviewed the kid who brought it in. We put it on the news, and I answered all the questions I kept getting about it. Having those hands-on models are very, very important, and they can be used over and over again.

Along with that, with top tools, this kind of flows into everything as well. I love to travel. I don't know if you guys know that. Maybe you've seen it on my Instagram. If you follow me on Instagram at NaomiMeredith_underscore, you'll see I love to travel. When I travel, I'm always thinking about STEM. I can't get away from it. I take videos and pictures of things that I know my students would love, and I use these photos and pictures as talking points when I am chatting with kids. It’s a great way to get to know them, but I will show them, “Oh my gosh, I saw this while whale watching,” and explain how animals didn’t want to be camouflaged, they wanted to be showy. I show videos from that experience. When you’re traveling, or if you’re going to the zoo, take some extra photos or pictures that you know will connect to a lesson, and you can pull them out later. These might not be the types of science tools you thought of, but those are things I really love to use to enhance my lessons.

Okay, so on to those lesson ideas. Yes, STEM is all integrated, but we’re really thinking about how science is the main standard for this subject. For this series, when we talk about each letter of STEM, or the upcoming episodes, I will be sharing with you a project, a station, and a one-day lesson. Depending on how long you see kids or what you are looking for, this will give you some good ideas.

In terms of a project, the standards that I was looking at were in second grade and the NGSS. It was about how weathering and erosion can happen, and I focused on water erosion for this project. The project goes through the whole engineering design process. Students explore different ways and inventions that help with water erosion. It can be tricky, especially for third grade and younger, to find resources that help with the imagining and planning phases. I wrote short, kid-friendly articles with image examples and audio where kids can explore different inventions. From there, students plan their design using those ideas, combining what they have learned. They create an invention using maker space materials to try to either stop or slow down water erosion of the soil.

When I've done this with second grade, I've tried it a few ways. There are certain supplies they could use, or I've done a shopping method where students shop for supplies. If you're interested, go back and listen to episodes five and six about maker space, as I discuss the shopping piece. When we got to testing their designs, I tried different methods. One year, I had buckets of dirt and soil, probably potting soil, and students tested their designs in these buckets. It was December, so it was cold in Colorado. But when I did this lesson again in October, it was warmer, so we tested our designs outside. Testing inside was nice because the buckets of dirt could dry out and be ready for the next few weeks. But taking kids outside wasTesting inside was nice because the buckets of dirt could dry out and be ready for the next few weeks. But taking kids outside was fun too, as they had to adjust their designs and see how they worked with water. If you want to test this lesson indoors, I highly recommend using those buckets of dirt.

For a station lesson, this can be something used in rotations, especially if you have lower grades. I have a lot of robot extensions and use robots to integrate science concepts, specifically animal adaptations and how that translates into robots. You could start by reading “What if You Had Animal Eyes?” or “What if You Had Animal Hair?” which are very cute books and only take 10-15 minutes to read. Then, you could discuss how engineers get ideas from nature, called biomimicry. Following this, you could have different science stations with robotics extensions. One example is using Cubelets to have kids build different robots representing animal features, like eyes that can see or camouflage.

Another station example is using Bee-Bots to talk about habitats. You could have maps with different animal habitats, and students can program the Bee-Bot to go to different locations on the map. If you have older students, they could create the maps for the younger kids to use. There are many ways to connect robots with science concepts, and these are just a few examples.

Finally, for a one-day lesson, I love using littleBits to create inventions. One lesson idea is having students create a warning system for when their drink is too hot. They could use littleBits temperature sensors to create an invention that warns them when the drink is at a certain temperature. This can be tied to discussions about heat and temperature, making it a quick, engaging, and educational activity.

There you go! That was a lot of information, but I hope you found some new ideas and ways to integrate science into your STEM lessons. Remember, integrating science doesn't have to be complicated, and using standards as your foundation will ensure that your lessons are purposeful and impactful.

 

 

Related Episodes/Blog Posts:

Connect with Naomi Meredith:

 

More About your host, Naomi Meredith

Naomi Meredith is an online K-5 STEM Coach in Colorado supporting elementary teachers world-wide navigate the best practices, strategies and tools out there. With over a decade of experience teaching, 5 years teaching elementary STEM, along with a M.Ed. in STEM Leadership and STEM Certificate, Naomi helps teachers world-wide to navigate best practices, strategies and tools out there. 

She offers a variety of tools to help teachers feel successful teaching STEM to their elementary students through lesson plans, online courses, coaching and speaking events.

She truly believes that any teacher out there can learn how to use STEM, innovation and hands-on learning in their classrooms effectively. She can’t wait to connect with you and be your guide!

More About The Elementary STEM Coach Podcast

Are you tired of scrolling online for your next great STEM lesson? Do you feel like there is no time to plan, research and test meaningful STEM lessons, so you throw together a hands-on activity and hope that it works? What systems and routines should you set in place to help students be creative, critically think, and collaborate? 

The Elementary STEM Coach is a podcast for K-5 STEM teachers, classroom teachers, GT specialists, and homeschool parents looking for actionable STEM solutions. Each week, Naomi Meredith will share tools, resources and lesson ideas that are actionable in your classroom and create highly engaging experiences with your students. You’ll learn systems and routines that will create control in the chaos and that will keep you organized all year long. 

Your mindless scrolling days are over! Your new STEM-best friend is now here in your ear buds!

Innovation Conference Recap: Featuring Rug-Ed

This June 2022, I had the opportunity to attend the InnEdCo (Innovative Education Colorado) Conference in Breckenridge, Colorado. As a past attendee, now current Ambassador for this organization, this is an experience that I never want to miss out on. This year was different since I brought along my iPad with my Rug-Ed Journey 10 case to help me capture important information I learned throughout the week. Here is a recap of my conference experience and my biggest takeaways. 

 

Packing for Success

Before heading up for the week, I made sure to pack materials that will help me as a learner, but also as a presenter. Here are the essentials I brought along: 

  • iPad and Rug-Ed Journey 10 Case
  • iPad Pencil
  • InnEdCo Ambassador shirt
  • Laptop & dongle video adaptors
  • Small Notebook & Pens (just in case Wifi went out!)
  • Waterbottle
  • STEM Goodie Bags for attendees in my session

Goodie bags for session attendees my friend and I presented together.

Sessions for Learning

What I love about this conference is there is a variety of sessions that you can choose from to enhance your teaching practice. There are presenters who are current teachers, former teachers and even educational companies who share impactful information. 

I was able to attend a day early for the Google Pre-Con Party where it was 4 hours of actionable Google for Education Content. While sitting with fellow InnEdCO Ambassadors, we collaborated and tried new tools (and not to mention a few laughs too!). 

All dressed up for Dave Burgess (back left in the blue) and his “Teach Like a Pirate” keynote session.

 

We also had amazing keynote speakers each day including a local student panel, Dave Burgess and Alice Keeler.

Having my iPad on hand was extremely helpful during my session with SAM Labs where I was able to download their app and experiment with their coding product. During that session, I was able to code a light that turned on and off with a sensor. 

Other sessions had valuable knowledge that I wanted to take more notes on. My favorite iPad app for this is Good Notes. I was able to write, draw, and even take pictures of hand-outs and business cards to keep all the information in one digital space. 

 

Typically when traveling, I am wary of bringing expensive technology with me, like my laptop and iPad. However, having my iPad in my Journey 10 case and its Accidental Damage Protection Program (ADP). With the ADP warranty, Rug-Ed handles device deployment, tracking, and repairs to damaged iPads. This zero-deductible and unlimited repair coverage is ideal for the devices in schools and classrooms.

Session for Presenting

My long-time friend and fellow teacher and I had the opportunity to present a session, “Engagement through Innovative Upgrades”. During our session, we gave examples of traditional K-5 lessons that were enhanced with different tools or lesson structures. 

Teachers were then able to collaborate and brainstorm lessons they hope to upgrade in their classroom and use the ideas from our session as inspiration. It was amazing being able to support teachers and help them think in different ways about their future lessons. 

 

Connecting & Networking

A major benefit about the InnEdCo conference is being able to connect and network with other teachers and educational companies. There is a section of the conference area where vendors have booths set up. While it can be intimidating at first seeing these as a teacher, it’s quite the opposite!

These representatives are extremely helpful and will help answer questions about current products you may already have in your school and give you more information about them if you’re interested. Also in this conference setting, they typically have a variety of giveaways going on. From one of the giveaways that I entered, I ended up winning a podcasting microphone!

 

Conclusion

With the Rug-Ed Journey 10 case in hand, here are the biggest takeaways from the InnEdCo Conference:

  • Community is always important. Surround yourself with those who inspire you, motivate you, and remind you of why you do what you do. But also, those you can have fun with wherever you go!
  • There is ALWAYS something new to learn, no matter how old you are!
  • Find ways to continuously reignite your passion whether it’s a conference, a meet-up or even a book. Mix it up with different opportunities to keep the creativity flowing and your purpose alive! 

Interested in attending InnEdCo? Check it out at innedco.org

Take 10% off a Rug-Ed case when you use the code NAOMI10 on Rug-Ed.com

 

Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy:

 

How can I help you navigate your STEM & Tech journey? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

About the Author

Naomi Meredith is a former classroom teacher turned current K-5 STEM teacher and coach. Her role not only includes teaching over 500 students in her school, but also leading professional development and co-teaching with teachers to help them integrate STEM & Technology.

With over a decade of experience along with a M.Ed. in STEM Leadership and STEM certificate, she helps teachers navigate the best practices, strategies and tools out there.

She truly believes that any teacher out there can learn how to use STEM & Technology in their classrooms effectively. She can’t wait to connect with you and be your guide!

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Must Read Books for STEM Education

Must Read Books for STEM Education

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Looking for ways to improve your STEM teaching practice? Check out this list of books for STEM education. Whether reading the physical copy or listening to the audio, all texts include inspiring ideas to apply to the classroom. In fact, all texts are worth rereading as new ideas always seem to pop out the second read!

Books aren't listed in any particular order. All are worth investing in to continue to grow STEM teaching practices.

Amazon Affiliate links are included in the post. When purchasing through my link, so added cost to you but I receive a small commission in return.

Books for STEM Education | Creativity Inc: Overcoming the Unseen Forces that Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Amy Wallace and Ed Catmull

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Written by the creator of Disney's Pixar. Highly recommend the audio version of this book. While not read by the original author, the performance is fantastic. While this book does go through some of the backstory of the history of Pixar, is also provides how creativity can be added to the workplace. When thinking about the workplace setting, this can be thought of as actual staff members but even students.

There are many quotable concepts given in this book. Top must read for those wanting an inspiring story.

Click here to grab this book!

Books for STEM Education | The Art of Tinkering: Meet 150+ Makers Working at the Intersection of Art, Science and Technology by Karen Wilkinson and Mike Petrich

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This book includes beautiful photographs to illustrate Makers who use STEM in their real worlds. While there are inspiring stories to share with students, not all are suitable for children. Recommend purchasing the physical copy of this book. There are many treasures of how this can spark creativity for future STEM lessons in the classroom. Also, gather ways on how students can use their creativity in real world applications.

Click here to grab this book!

Books for STEM Education | Mathematical Mindsets: Unleashing Students' Potential Through Creative Math, Inspiring Messages and Innovative Teaching by Jo Boaler

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Naomi Meredith and school team meeting Jo Boaler at her Mathematical Mindsets workshop hosted at Stanford University, CA

This book is a MUST read for any teacher wanting to improve their math teaching practice. This book truly changed my teaching career and how to help students understand math. My copy of this book has tons of words written in the margins and sticky notes. Jo Boaler is incredible and how she is changing the math world to help all students believe they can do math.

In conjunction to this book, make sure to check out her website, YouCubed. There is a Week of Inspirational math which is a wonderful way to start the year during math workshop. Along with that are other activities, articles and trainings to improve your math teaching practice.

I was fortunate enough to attend a workshop led and taught by Jo Boaler and her team. This was during my days as a classroom teacher as I was learning strategies that would later apply to my K-5 STEM role.

Click here to grab this book!

Books for STEM Education | LAUNCH: Using Design Thinking to Boost Creativity by John Spencer and A.J. Juliani

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When getting started with Design Challenges, this book should be a prerequisite for teachers. This will explain the process to effectively plan a Design Challenge while also giving question stems to use in the process. Even if you have been teaching Design Challenges for awhile, this is a great references to go back to the basics and evaluate if current lessons are effective.

Click here to grab this book!

Books for STEM Education | Invent to Learn: Making, Tinkering, and Engineering in the Classroom by Gary Stagner and Sylvia Libow Martinez

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This book pairs well with the above book, LAUNCH. While explaining best practices to use in a STEM lesson, there are also ideas to include into lessons. Think of the like having a personal PLC (Professional Learning Community). This book isn't meant to be read straight through but rather pick and choose concepts you would like to read about.

Click here to grab this book!

Books for STEM Education | Unfolding the Napkin: The Hands-On Method for Solving Complex Problems with Simple Pictures by Dan Roam

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Visualization is a powerful skill that can be developed. It's not always as innate as you think. When I was a classroom teacher, when we would listen to chapter books or podcasts, I would have students draw illustrations of the pictures they saw in their minds while listening. More common than not, many students said, “I don't see anything.”

Again, we need to help students develop this skill and this book gives wonderful advice. By teaching students to solve by drawing and visualizing, it's unlocking another part of the brain. In fact, many Design Challenges involve drawing a plan. Help give students a set of tools. Therefore, drawing plans doesn't become overwhelming, but an asset to the creation process.

Click here to grab this book!

Books for STEM Education | Lifelong Kindergarten: Cultivating Creativity Through Projects, Passion, Peers, and Play by Mitchel Resnick

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Have you ever had the privilege to teach Kindergarteners STEM? Based on my experience teaching K-5 STEM, these little ones are by far the most creative and inventive age of children I ever teach. Granted, they don't always have advanced skills. However, they are always willing to try something.

How can we instill the thinking strategies and creativity Kindergarteners possess beyond that age?

Again, this is another wonderful book to listen to the audio version. Very inspiring and encouraging to create a culture in the classroom conducive to growth mindset and exploration.

Click here to grab this book!

Books for STEM Education | Comprehension and Collaboration (Revised Edition): Inquiry Circles for Curiosity, Engagement, and Understanding by Stephanie Harvey and Harvey “Smokey” Daniels

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Naomi Meredith with Stephanie Harvey after listening to her presentation.

Comprehension isn't reserved for literacy blocks. If students aren't comprehending what they are learning, what are they learning?

By planning productive ways for students to use inquiry and collaborate, deep thinking can occur. Again, this is a skill that needs to be developed with proper structures put in place.

In my K-5 STEM classes, my class format follows the workshop model. My lessons start by reviewing past lessons and a strategy to help students continue to work on their project. From this book, Harvey's strategies can definitely be implemented during whole group and small group STEM lessons.

Again, she is another guru I had the pleasure of learning from in person and meeting. Her work is incredible to help students use high level thinking strategies.

Click here to grab this book!

 

Complete book list mentioned in this post:

Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy:

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books-for-stem-education

What other professional books would you add to this list? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

 

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Must-Have STEM Station Rotation Ideas

Must-Have STEM Station Rotation Ideas

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What are some great station rotation ideas? How can your planning be streamlined?

In previous blog posts, we discuss why you need a station rotation in STEM and tips for classroom management. 

You can also grab a FREE STEM Rotation Planning Guide HERE

STEM Station Blog Series

Tips for Planning STEM Stations

Keep station planning meaningful and purposeful. With the ideas listed below, students can experience many different STEM concepts within two, 45 minute classes. 

With a 4-station model, plan around the acronym STEM. Have each station correspond with each letter; Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. 

Also, have a mixture of no-tech and tech options. This will help keep students’ interest while also not having students on a screen the whole time. 

One of the stations can also be teacher-led. This is a great time to lead a small group and teach a skill, revise work from a project, or go deeper into a concept. Add a teacher-station in once classes are able to be independent during work time. 

Below are ideas when getting started, for both primary and intermediate elementary students.  

 

This post contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the link, no extra cost to you, but I receive a kickback from purchases. 

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Station Rotation Ideas | ‘S’ for Science

  • Epic! Books create a book collection where students can read about the related science topic to bigger projects
  • Make observations for a science experiment
  • Test solutions for a science experiment
  • Explore STEM concepts using Gizmos
  • Code using cards related to science concepts (Example: predator & prey)
  • Notice animal behavior & take notes using live web cams like San Diego Zoo

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Station Rotation Ideas | ‘T’ for Technology

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Station Rotation Ideas | ‘E’ for Engineering

Primary Ideas

  • Engineer Inspiration Boards
  • Pixel Art/Bloxel Boards
    • Run a Google Search ‘Pixel Art of____’ to get different ideas to print out to inspire students
  • STEM & Stories
    • Read the story to the whole group, students complete building challenge at this station


Intermediate Ideas

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Station Rotation Ideas | ‘M’ for Math

  • Tangrams
    • Virtual or using manipulatives. Can Google Search different puzzles to use with students
  • Osmo Genius Kit
    • Tangrams, Words and Numbers challenges. There are different kits for iPad & Kindle Fire, so make sure to double check which one is being ordered before purchasing. 
  • Collecting measurements from a previous challenge
  • Apply new vocabulary in a hands-on way

Station Rotation Ideas | Starter Kits

Want to get started with STEM Stations right away but short on time? 

I’ve put together a STEM Starter Kit that you can use in your classroom. There is an option for primary (K-2) and intermediate (3-5). 

In each set, there is an activity that corresponds to each letter of STEM; Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. 

As a bonus, you will also receive STEM vocabulary posters. There is also a digital version that can be used to type student names to keep track of who is at each station. 

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Primary STEM Station Bundle Activities 

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Intermediate STEM Station Bundle Activities

 

Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy:

station-rotation-ideas

What questions do you have about these activities? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

More About the Author, Naomi Meredith

Naomi Meredith is a former classroom teacher turned current K-5 STEM teacher and coach. Her role not only includes teaching over 500 students in her school, but also leading professional development and co-teaching with teachers to help them integrate STEM & Technology.

With over a decade of experience along with a M.Ed. in STEM Leadership and STEM certificate, she helps teachers navigate the best practices, strategies and tools out there.

She truly believes that any teacher out there can learn how to use STEM & Technology in their classrooms effectively. She can’t wait to connect with you and be your guide!

 

reviewing-technology-expectations-in-the-classroom

Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom

Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom

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You're back to school after a long break! Just like with any classroom routine, it's especially important to remind students how to properly use technology for learning. Here are my go-to tips for reviewing technology expectations in the classroom.

This video originally aired LIVE on my Facebook Page; Naomi Meredith: The STEMTech Co. 

Come and join in on the fun on Facebook, or watch the recording of this episode.

Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom | Watch the recording down below:

Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom | #1 Make a list

Before jumping right in, make a class of routines and expectations when using classroom technology. This can. be done independently as the classroom teacher, but also more effective when made with students. Chart down student responses as to how technology is used in the classroom. This is also a great opportunity to add any new rules that you want students to add into their practice. It's ok to change things when it doesn't work well!

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Here are some examples of expectations to think about:

  • How to carry a device in the classroom
  • Where the device goes during a lesson
  • Putting devices away
  • Where to store and gather headphones
  • Login information stored for independent use
  • How to troubleshoot technology issues
  • Using technology for academic purposes; staying on task
  • Communicating with others when using technology

Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom | #2 Model

Once it is clear what rules and expectations are used for technology, model! Students need to see how this should look in the classroom. Don't assume that students already know or remember, especially if new routines are being added.

Physically model real quick as the teacher, and have some student volunteers try for the whole class. Even adding in non-examples can be helpful to.

This step doesn't need to take long and it's not a lecture. People remember by doing, and modeling is such a great asset for remembering positive routines. Even making a video of some routines can be powerful as well and can always be rewatched, year after year.

You can see how I explain my classroom rules to students below.

 

Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom | #3 Take Pictures

Not all rules and routines are photo worthy! However, this can be especially helpful for organization expectations. Take pictures of what a certain area should look like cleaned up. Headphone and device storage as well as how to carry items in the room are great for this.

Before students start cleaning up, show the picture of what the final product looks like. This probably won't need to be shown all year, but this is especially great for students who need visual accommodations.

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Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom | #4 Practice with Incentives

I always say in my class “Practice makes better, not perfect, because perfect doesn't exist.” This is so important for students to understand. They are always going to make mistakes and there is always room for improvement.

On a large piece of construction paper, write down a whole class reward. This could be something like, “10 Minutes of Free Tech Time!”. Next, cover the paper with sticky notes, side by side. Then, write down a technology expectation, one per sticky note.

As the majority of the class applies the correct technology behavior, take off the corresponding sticky note. Once all of the sticky notes are removed, the class can earn their reward!

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Reviewing Technology Expectations in the Classroom | #5 Visual Reminders

Reviewing technology expectations and flowing into a routine takes time. However, being clear about behaviors and being explicit allows students to be more successful and independent during work time.

Once the class is finding that rhythm again, post the classroom expectations and rules in the classroom. Adding words and visuals is extremely helpful for all learners. I typically have no more than 10 for my students, but pack a good punch in the ones I used.

Want to use my same rules and expectations in your classroom? Check out my print and go resource here! Digital versions are also available to help with any classroom setting.

 

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Products mentioned in this post:

Other blog posts you might enjoy:

 

reviewing-technology-expectations-in-the-classroom

What questions do you have about helping your class with technology?? Have any other ideas to share? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ or send my an email, contactnaomimeredith@gmail.com, and I would love to chat with you!

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In-Person Hour Of Code Activities to Try

In-Person Hour Of Code Activities to Try

Here are some Hour of Code Activities to try in your classroom while in person. There are so many options to choose from! I'll share the ones that have been the most successful in my K-5 STEM classes. These are all low-prep, and highly engaging to help expose students to the world of coding.

This video originally aired LIVE on my Facebook Page; Naomi Meredith: The STEMTech Co. 

Come and join in on the fun on Facebook, or watch the recording of this episode.

Click here for the FREE printable PDF of this resource.

Hour of Code Activities  | Watch the recording down below:

Here are the key takeaways from this episode:

Hour of Code Activities | Resource Prep

Before getting into the lesson planning, these are questions that I ask year after year to ensure that I'm prepared for the Hour of Code unit.

    1. Check out hourofcode.com for ways to promote Computer Science at your school and promote to families
    2. Prep necessary vocabulary that will aid student instruction. I created Coding Vocabulary that you just need to print-and-go!
    3. Organize supplies so they are easy for students to access and clean up when finished. I like to use clear plastic containers to leave in the center of each table with the necessary supplies for the lesson. Especially as a specials teacher, this helps tremendously so I am not running around in between classes gathering supplies!
    4. How you will share computer coding links with students? {Google Classroom, Seesaw, Schoology…}
    5. Do you need to set aside instruction instruction time for students to set up any coding accounts? {Example: Scratch}
    6. Will kids be using one device for paired programming or each student code on their own device?
    7. Is a station rotation model or whole group going to work best for your class?

 

You can teach these lessons in a way that works best for your kids, your classroom and the resources you have available. Each resource below is clickable or type in corresponding link.

Click here for the FREE printable PDF of this resource.

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Hour of Code Activities | Kindergarten

Day 1 & 2: Teaching the Difference Between Software & Hardware

Day 3: Device Coding

Day 4 & 5: Coding Unplugged & Device Coding *1/2 class do an activity a day

hour-of-code-activities

Hour of Code Activities | 1st Grade

Day 1 & 2: Teaching the Difference Between Software & Hardware

Day 3: Device Coding

Day 4 & 5: Coding Unplugged & Device Coding *1/2 class do an activity a day

hour-of-code-activities

Hour of Code Activities | 2nd Grade

Day 1: Device Coding

  • Intro Video: The Hour of Code is Here
    • Student Practice: (iPad/tablet) Scratch Jr.
    • Under ‘Teach’, there are 9 great beginner printables that progress off one another for students. I like doing pair programming the first day to help students problem solve together. I also made a little checklist to help students check off when they complete a challenge.

Day 2 & 3: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

Day 4 & 5: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

  • Intro Video: Computational Thinking by Brainpop Jr. & Conditionals by BrainPop Jr.
  • Student Practice: Robot Turtles Board Game
  • Since only half the class is playing at a time, when I’m introducing the game, we will play as a group in teams of 4. Once they get the hang of it, I will split them up onto the 2 remaining game boards.

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Hour of Code Activities | 3rd Grade

Day 1: Device Coding

Day 2 & 3: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

Day 4 & 5: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

hour-of-code-activities

Hour of Code Activities | 4th Grade

Day 1: Device Coding

Day 2 & 3: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

Day 4 & 5: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

hour-of-code-activities

Hour of Code Activities | 5th Grade

Day 1: Device Coding

Day 2 & 3: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

Day 4 & 5: Device Coding & Coding Unplugged

Other blog posts you might enjoy:

 

hour-of-code-activities

What questions do you have about these activities? Have any other ideas to share? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

remote-teaching-ideas

5 Remote Teaching Ideas To Try

5 Remote Teaching Ideas To Try

remote-teaching-ideasTeaching online and need a refresh? Here are 5 remote teaching ideas to try in your classroom. Mix it up and have fun with your students!

This video originally aired LIVE on my Facebook Page; Naomi Meredith: The STEMTech Co. 

Come and join in on the fun on Facebook, or watch the recording of this episode.

 

Here are the key takeaways from this episode:

Remote Teaching Ideas | Watch the recording down below:

Welcome Slide as Kids Enter Meeting

Use the transition time into the meeting as a productive time. Ensure that students have all of the necessary materials prepared for the lesson; both the digital and physical items.

Some of those can include:

  • microphone on mute
  • sound on
  • camera on (if possible)
  • physical items needed for the lesson (notebook, something to write with, building materials…)

I'll display these directives on a welcome slide which you can grab for free HERE

remote-teaching-ideas

Hands-On Activities

It can be exhausting staring at the screen and listening to lectures all day. Consider having hands-on activities the kids can complete at home while in the virtual class setting. A favorite with my younger students are my Engineer Inspiration Boards. (You can see my growing collection HERE).

During virtual class, I'll display the board by sharing my screen. Students have the opportunity to build any of the items with the material they have at home. I'll typically email parents the day before to ensure student have something, anything, to build with. Even drawing is a great option.

While students are building, I'll set a timer on my screen (video directions on how to do that here), and play music in the background. The Disney piano collection is a popular request!

When the timer goes off, I'll have some students share. I also highly encourage the students to share their creations with me in Seesaw when class time is complete. Grab an extra month of Seesaw Plus for free by using my link HERE!

 

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Randomize Calling Names

Definitely use the icons within your video platform as a way for students to raise their hand and respond. These are great digital tools. Sometimes mixing it up is fun too! Classroom Screen and Wheel of Names are free tools to try. Both have random name pickers. Just like a game show, it's fun to see which name will be picked from the machine!

 

Guest Speakers

Is there a new science topic you're wanting to introduce? How about a math concept that an expert uses daily in their job? Could an author speak to the class about their most recent book? Think about ways that guest speakers can be added into the virtual classroom setting. Your students will enjoy hearing a different perspective and gather deeper insight about the topic.


remote-teaching-ideas

Virtual Field Trips

A lot of museums, zoos and public places have virtual field trip options. Use this as a tool to build background and observational skills in your students.

Consider changing your background within the video platform to get started. For example, if you're learning about the ocean, change your background throughout the meeting with different ocean settings. Then, show students video clips of those places. This definitely would be a lesson that kids wouldn't want to end!

Here is a list of virtual field trips to check out!

 

Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy: 

remote-teaching-ideas

What are some remote teaching tips and tricks you've tried that were successful with your students?  Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

 

How to Teach Online for Home Learning

how-to-teach-online-for-home-learning

How to teach online for home learning

You might be finding yourself in a situation where you have to adjust your teaching practice for home learning. Or, you might be looking for strategies to help flip your classroom. Either way, I am going to give you some tips for how to teach online for home learning. 

The majority of these tools I also used in my general education classroom and my STEM classroom. These practices can definitely be applied to any type of classroom aside from home learning.

how-to-teach-online-for-home-learning

Create a daily agenda

With all of the teaching strategies I will be sharing with you, it’s important to create a daily agenda for your class. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but something students can see in one place what they need to complete. 

I would suggest creating a Google Slide with the share settings as ‘Anyone with the Link can View’ and share that link with students. Add a new slide on the top for each day. That way, students can see the changes you make in real time, but have no need to edit this slide. 

If you can make it printable, this might be helpful as well for families to check off the tasks as they go.

how-to-teach-online 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #1: Screencasting

This is the number one tool that I would suggest for teaching online. Pre-record your lessons and students can re-watch as often as needed. Screencastify is my favorite Google Chrome extension to install. 

Here are the main features you should know about this extension:

  • Record just your computer screen, computer screen & face, just face
  • Record up to 5 minutes/video with the free version. (Unlimited video time with paid version)
  • Videos recorded save automatically to your Google Drive. You can download videos if you need
  • Once recorded, there are multiple sharing options: Shareable link from your drive, Google Classroom and YouTube

How to teach online for home learning Tip #2: Consistent platform for posting

Find an online platform or two to streamline and post your students’ work. Too many platforms are hard to keep track of; for both teachers and students. 

Some of my ultimate go-to’s for elementary students are Google Classroom and Seesaw. These tools allow teachers to post different types of digital files that students can access in one place.

Likewise, many districts purchase learning management systems that they prefer teachers and students to use. (Schoology, Microsoft OneNote, Canvas, Blackboard…)

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How to teach online for home learning Tip #3: Digital Interactive Notebooks

Interactive notebooks don’t always have to be printed. I typically make my digital interactive notebooks in Google Slides for easy sharing in Google Classroom. 

Skills that can be embedded in Digital Interactive Notebooks are: 

  • Using an online dictionary
  • Copy & Paste
  • Typing
  • Resizing an Image
  • Resizing Text
  • Dragging & Dropping
  • Using Shape & Line Tools
  • Labeling a Digital Image
  • Clicking Hyperlinks
  • Toggling between Browser Tabs
  • Online Videos
  • Digital Note Taking
  • Reading and Responding to Digital Text

Need help getting started? Click here to go straight to my YouTube video playlist for tips & tricks when creating with Google Apps.  

Want something already pre-created for you? Here is a Digital Interactive Notebook you can edit and add your own content.

how-to-teach-online-for-home-learning

How to teach online for home learning Tip #4: Digital Choice Menus

Choice menus are a great way to give students voice and choice with their learning about a given topic. When creating a digital choice menu, try keeping it concise on one page so the choices aren’t too overwhelming. 

The great thing about having a digital choice menu is you can link websites, examples, and resources within the menu that help guide students to complete the activities.

How to teach online for home learning Tip #5: Digital Journals

If you’re expected to be out of school for a long time, those classroom relationships are more important now than ever. In fact, you can still connect with your students virtually. 

Create a digital back and forth journal that you can learn about your students’ days and keep tabs on them. 

I even created a digital break journal that you can use for free! Just click here to get the link and share on the platform of your choice. 

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How to teach online for home learning Tip #6: Online Morning Meetings

Did your class typically start with the morning meeting? You can still do this! Continuing those positive routines for kids is so important.

Here are a few things you can easily do at home during this time: 

  • Calendar (so many printable options online)
  • Weather
  • Show & Tell (schedule a day where students can share one item from their house)
  • Quote of the day (something positive to keep them going)
  • Question of the day (students share their response)
  • Kindness Chore of the day (students report back the next day if they completed the task)

You can pre-record your morning meeting with Screencastify (mentioned above), or you can go live using Zoom. Students can see you and each other in real time. 

Other similar platforms are: Microsoft Teams & Google Meet/Hangouts  

How to teach online for home learning Tip #7: Create with technology

There are a lot of websites out there for students to “sit and get” information. However, when students are learning at home, think about what they might be doing before they are coming to learn. 

Oftentimes, they might be playing video games and watching TV. Give students opportunities to interact and create their learning experiences. 

This could be a good time for project based learning, research projects and collaborating with other students in their class. 

Seesaw, Flipgrid, Pic Collage Edu (app) and Shapegrams are just a few platforms where students have the opportunity to create and demonstrate their learning. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #8: Digital Breakouts

The beauty of digital break out boxes is there are no locks to set or materials to print beforehand. 

Definitely creating your own using multiple online tools, like Google Forms, is possible. Or you can grab some that are ready to go on Breakout Edu.  

If you want to make it more competition based for your class, set a timer and send the breakout link. Students will have that amount of time to work on the challenges. This can be a great opportunity to get siblings involved as well! 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #9: Virtual Field Trips

Currently at the time of this blogpost, there are a lot of zoos and museums offering opportunities for students to go on a virtual field trip. 

Depending on the site, students can see what’s happening live. Some of the virtual field trips are in virtual reality form. This means it feels like they are in that digital space and pan around the room to get a closer view. 

Some Virtual Field Trips to try out are: 

This is a great opportunity to add in reflection questions about their experience. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #10: Video Creation

Kids LOVE making videos. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard students say they want to be a YouTube Star when they grow up. (and they aren’t joking). 

Give students an opportunity to create a video with purpose. It can be a topic that you are teaching them about. Or, since they will be home for awhile, they can create a video to teach someone about a talent they have and others can learn how to do it by watching their video. 

A few great video editing platforms are: iMovie, WeVideo, Flipgrid & Seesaw.

Stop motion animation has been a popular filming technique in my classroom. Often, students will go home and create these on their own! The app Stop Motion Studio is free and works on most devices. You can find out how to get started with Stop Motion animation with your students by clicking here. 

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How to teach online for home learning Tip #11: Reading Challenges

We all know that reading is important. Right now, the kids have A TON of time to do it! However, we know kids and we know their stamina. 

Mix up their reading experience. There are wonderful platforms like Epic! Books, ReadWorks & National Geographic Kids that are my go-to’s. 

You can also create fun reading challenges or tic-tac-toe boards for students to complete. 

Some fun things to add could be: 

  • create a fort to read your book in
  • read outside
  • read to your favorite stuffed animal

How to teach online for home learning Tip #12: Show math work

Again, there are plenty of websites that allow students to practice quick facts and keep up with important basic skills. 

Continue to help students show their math work virtually. GoFormative is a great way to assign questions to your class and students can show their work in a variety of ways, including drawing. 

Students can still even solve problems on paper! Have them share their work by taking a photo in Seesaw. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #13: Video Conferencing

Continue to conference with students one-on-one virtually. Pre-record your videos and send them the link (Screencastify) or connect with them live (Zoom). 

Make a schedule of conferencing times so students know when to check in. Connect with your students personally and also how they are doing with their work. This will help continue to build those relationships you’ve worked so hard on all school year. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #14: Virtual Class Party

When I was a classroom teacher, we would always have an incentive that our class was working hard towards with great behavior and work ethic. Typically, the incentive was in the form of a class party. 

Continue to encourage that collaboration virtually. Create a slide that graphs the progress on turning in assignments on time (or another goal you can think of). If your class reaches that goal, host a virtual party! Host your class party using Zoom. 

Here are some virtual party ideas:

  • Pajama & stuffed animal
  • Snack party (everyone brings their favorite snack)
  • Fort party (everyone build a fort and attends the party inside)
  • Costume party

How to teach online for home learning Tip #15: Live Science Experiments

Kids LOVE science. I do too, hence, I became a STEM teacher. Mystery Science right now is opening up access to their content and you can share with students. 

Do you have science materials at home? Host a live science experiment in front of your class! Before, during and after, have them go through the Scientific Process or Engineering Design Process.  Then, demonstrate the experiment on camera for them and keep checking in on the progress the following days. 

Test student predictions as well! Write down what they think might happen. You can create a makeshift anchor chart by taping a few pieces of paper together and hanging it up on the wall behind you. 

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How to teach online for home learning Tip #16: Educational Shows

The kids are probably watching a lot of TV and movies right now. Why not suggest some educational ones that go along with what you are learning about in your virtual class? 

Netflix has some great selections: 

  • Storybots (for K+1)
  • Magic School Bus, new & old episodes (2-5)
  • Disney’s Oceans (2-5)
  • If I were an Animal (K+1)

I have a longer list of suggestions by grabbing my 50+ Free STEM Resource Guide here. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #17: Pen Pals

Make writing time fun and personal by creating pen pals. They can be virtual pen pals or real paper ones. If you make the pen pals virtual, make sure you can see what the kid’s write first, before sending. 

As the teacher, try and send at least one real piece of mail to each student. This can be an exciting thing for them to look forward to. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #18: Podcasts

Podcasts are a great way for students to build their listening comprehension and visualization. 

When I introduce podcasts to students, I have them draw the pictures they are seeing in their brain. Again, this drawing can be done virtually on a platform like Seesaw or real paper. 

Some of my favorite podcasts for kids are:

I have a longer list of suggestions by grabbing my 50+ Free STEM Resource Guide here. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #19: Inside Recess

For the days that don’t have great weather to play outside, encourage active inside recess. 

My go-to favorite is GoNoodle, which they always have home-access for students. 

You can have students log into GoNoodle on their own. Or, you can do a class inside recess. Have kids take turns each day to choose the video. From the teacher side, share the video on your screen on Zoom. That way everyone is participating at the same time. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #20: Digital Worksheets

This is an easy way to assign work digitally for students. This is something you would share in a platform like Google Classroom since it can automatically make a copy for each student. 

However, how do you assign a worksheet that’s a PDF and it doesn’t give students spaces to type? 

In my quick video tutorial I show you how to make a PDF editable to share with students. 

Kami is also a Google Chrome extension that can be installed and help annotating over PDFs. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #21: Hands-On Tasks

Virtual learning really doesn’t mean students have to complete every task on an actual document. Hands-on learning is still just as important!

Encourage play, building, inventing and creating. In our Innovative Teacher Facebook Community, we shared 10 STEM challenges that students can complete at home. Come join us to get freebies and connect with other teachers around the world. 

How to teach online for home learning Tip #22: Read Aloud

There are a lot of great websites that have online read alouds for you to share with students: Vooks, Epic! Books, Storyline Online and even YouTube offer a variety of books. 

You can even be the one reading your book! I would suggest recording ahead of time (with Screencastify) and schedule the link to be pushed out at the same time each day on Seesaw or Google Classroom (or the platform of your choice). You can get all your read alouds done in one day and planned out for a couple weeks! 

 

What will you try?

Overall, I know that it can be a hard transition from face-to-face to online teaching. However, you are still using your great teaching skills, just in a different way. A silver lining to this is you are most likely strengthening your technology skills which in turn, can be used in your regular classroom. 

 

What else would you add to this list? What would you continue to do and take back to the regular classroom? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Other blogs about how to teach online for home learning to check out: 

how-to-teach-online