STEM activities are fantastic for teaching students critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity. Maker spaces and guided STEM activities are such a great way to encourage these skill in your students, but getting quality STEM resources can be hard for a teacher on a budget. Here are two fantastic,STEM tools that can be again and again.
I’d like to thank Steps to Literacy for sponsoring this post. I received compensation for this post, but all opinions, ideas, and thoughts are mine. I only share about resources, products, and companies that I use and believe, in, and believe will be beneficial to you as well!
Affordable and Reusable STEM Tools
Let’s face it. STEM supplies can really break the bank. Just a quick google search could have your wallet crying when things like robots, coding equipment, and kits created specifically for schools (which often remind me of those old school science kits that cost an arm and a leg and contained items you could gather yourself for 1/4 of the price) pop up. Although all of those things are great, it’s just not always feasible for the teacher on a budget who is supplying her own classroom. That’s why I’ve excited to share two super versatile, reusable STEM options that won’t break the bank and would be the perfect start or addition to a class maker’s space.
Popsicle Stick STEM Connectors
Popsicle sticks on their own are a fantastic, inexpensive STEM tool, but combine them with these awesome Craft Stick Connectors from S&S Worldwide, and the possibilities are endless! These connectors make combining jumbo popsicle sticks effortless! No need for tape or glue.
Students can simple use the 5 connector varieties to build anything from bridges to towers to cars: anything their brains can come up with! The best part is that this allows both the popsicle sticks and the connectors to be used again and again. You receive a huge amount of connectors (348), so you’ll have plenty for your class. This is an inexpensive option that can be used year after year!
Magic Wands, Tubes, and Connectors Building Set
Another fantastic option are these Magic Wand Connectors. These incredibly unique and fun building tools give students endless options. Unlike other STEM building tools, the magic wands are incredibly bendable! You really can create almost anything from these, so let your students get creative. In addition to being a great, reusable STEM, these help students work on fine motor skills.
This set also comes with a little pamphlet of ideas to get you started. You could laminate it and place it in your maker’s space to give students a jumping off point. Although, I’m sure they’ll begin to create their own unique designs in no time!
Marker’s Space Quick Tip: Keep Students Accountable
Here’s an easy way to keep students accountable and provide yourself with more idea cards for your students next year! After students build something they’re really proud of, have them take a picture of their creation with a tablet or chromebook. (Make sure to instruct them to write their name and date on an index card so you know who’s creation it is). Then, you can later scroll through the pictures and see what they’ve been working on! You can then print out any especially creative creations and add them to your maker’s space as inspiration for future students.
These two options are filled with endless possibilities for STEM creations. They’re perfect for teachers on a budget because you can use them again and again. They’re fun, durable, affordable, and the perfect new addition to your classroom STEM supplies!
Click the links below to purchase each of these tools for your classroom today!
Craft Stick Connectors Magic Wands, Tubes, and Connectors Building Set
Want to see more of my favorite resources from Steps to Literacy? Check out the posts below.
Listening Libraries Diverse Chapter Books Rich Mentor Texts NGSS Science Book Collections Back to School Favorites White Board Tips Tactile Letters Christmas Crafts Small Group Organization Brain Breaks Calm Down Kit Ideas
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