Teacher Experience: “Egyptian Museum” Task for 2nd Grade Students

A Defined STEM Learning Experience From:
Cheri Thompson
Second grade
West Point Elementary (AZ)

Performance Task:
Egyptian Museum

Here’s What We Did:
To match our second-grade curriculum I adjusted this lesson from an Egyptian museum to a virtual trip to China. Students acted as teachers who have been asked by the local library to create an interactive mini-museum exhibit that will teach students about China. Students chose an area, location, or historic artifact from China that they wanted to learn more about. Using Chromebooks to conduct research, students had to find at least five facts about their topic of choice. To compile their research, students created a presentation using any sort of media to present their findings. We showcased projects in the school library for all to see.

Why Defined STEM Was the Perfect Fit:
Defined STEM is a great opportunity for my students to expand their learning with multiple experiences. I did this project with a group of gifted students, and they all stepped up to the plate and got to shine individually though their work. Having the freedom to choose their topic and do research on something they were interested in motivated students to take ownership of their learning. The lessons are flexible and easy to adapt to each teachers’ unique needs and curriculum. In this particular lesson, there was a role reversal. Students got the opportunity to see how much planning and research teachers do every day.