Teacher Experience: “Rain Barrel Manufacturer” Task for 7th-8th Grade Students

A Defined STEM Learning Experience From:
Dvora Celniker
7/8th Grade Career Exploration Teacher
Los Coches Creek Middle School (CA)

Performance Task:
Rain Barrel Manufacturer

Here’s What We Did:
Students completed this task in small groups acting as green business owners manufacturing their own rain barrels. Students used the research on the Defined STEM website. They then had to determine what materials to use to ensure the barrel itself was environmentally safe and would not contaminate the water. They created unique designs for people wanting to purchase barrels for their homes. Using critical thinking and problem solving skills, students also had to make design modifications to their barrels to add value for the buyer.

Why Defined STEM Was the Perfect Fit:
Being that my school is 1:1, students were excited to kick off this project using their individual devices to perform research and take notes. Living in California, the project was relatable and relevant when talking about the benefits of a rain barrel during a drought. This project also taught students about multiple careers involving design and entrepreneurship, which is key for a career exploration teacher. At the end of the project students were very pleased with their product with many wanting their parents to buy rain barrels for their homes!