Teacher Experience: “Backpack Designer” Task for Middle School Students

A Defined STEM Learning Experience From:
Laura Balliett
Middle School STEM Teacher
Harding Middle School (IA)

Performance Task:
Backpack Designer

Here’s What We Did:
To ignite curiosity in my students, we watched the introduction videos on the Defined STEM website. With their interests sparked, students realized how many people it takes to create what they see as a simple object they use everyday. Student conducted individual research on backpack designs, creating their own shape, style, colors, and use. Each student followed the rubric provided by Defined STEM allowing him or her to complete the cross-curricular project while creating a unique backpack.

Why Defined STEM Was the Perfect Fit:
The students really enjoyed the opportunity to get creative and implement their own design ideas. They enjoyed the challenge of re-imagining something they use everyday and getting to create a backpack unique to their needs and style.

I think the videos are very helpful in painting a clear picture of the expectations for each project. My students seem excited to get working once they see the videos.