Ignite Creativity with this Build a Shelter STEM Project
Imagine being sent off into the wild with limited supplies. You have to stay quite a few days, but need a safe place to sleep. How can you build a shelter that will withstand different types of weather?
In this challenge, students go through the Engineering Design Process. They explore different weather patterns, shelter building tips. Finally, students build a design and test it under various conditions.
Let's take an inside look into this STEM Survival Camp Experience.
Ask & Imagine
After spending a long summer in the sun and adventuring, it can be hard to get back into an academic mindset. To help play off of that energy, this lesson was created for 5th grade students during the Back to School season.
Students were tasked with the challenge, How can you build a shelter that can withstand different elements? While many kids had been camping before, building a shelter from items found in nature wasn't their expertise.
After watching video clips and researching different shelter types, students had a brainstorm list of ideas that might want to try, and those that they didn't.
Build a Shelter STEM Project: Plan
For this shelter challenge, not all items would be used from the Makerspace. While some items were provided, the majority of the structure was created from items found outside. With thoughtful drawing and labeling, students visualized what their shelter might look like.
Once the rules of gathering items from the land were reviewed, students were ready to find the necessary items to build a strong structure.
Build a Shelter STEM Project: Create and Experiment & Improve
As dirt scattered the floor, students collaborated and built their shelter designs. Ideas began to change once materials were in place. Building with sticks, string and other materials proved to be a challenge!
After a few days of building, stations were set up around the classroom where students could test their shelter under different elements. From there, modifications and improvements to shelter designs were made.
Build a Shelter STEM Project: Share
Finally, as the week came to a close, students shared their final designs by taking photos and adding them to their digital Engineering Design Process notebook. They also took videos of their shelter withstanding the elements within Flipgrid. While some designs were taken home, many were too soggy after the rain challenge!
Grab this Challenge for Your Class!
Students can easily build a shelter. However, key details and learning opportunities can be missed. Go through the entire Engineering Design Process easily. In addition, save time on planning and have easy share options.
Click here to grab this Build a Shelter Challenge for your class!
Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy:
- How to Start a Makerspace by Naomi Meredith
- 8 Quotes for Growth Mindset for STEM by Naomi Meredith
- Must Have STEM School Supply List by Naomi Meredith
What questions do you have about STEM Survival Camp? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!
