Teacher Experience: “Skateboard Park Advocate” Task for 3rd Grade Science & STEM Students

A Defined STEM Learning Experience From:
Paul Karlovics
Third-Grade Science/ STEM Teacher
Summit 104 (IL)

Performance Task:
Skateboard Park Advocate

Here’s What We Did:
While collaborating in a small group, students were asked to design a skateboard park and convince their city planning team it would be a good idea. Students drew up to-scale plans of the park with specific guidelines such as plants, sidewalks, garbage cans, access points, and signage. Their design had to include five separate attractions, which included options such as stairs, a ramp, a bowl, a half-pipe, etc. In addition to the drawing, students built 3D models of what their park would look like based on printed photos of actual skate parks. Students also created a brochure about their park and the benefits of building one in their community.

Why Defined STEM Was the Perfect Fit:
Students were very eager to work on this project because it’s something they could relate to. It especially piqued the interest of students who enjoy skateboarding. They were very receptive to learning about the design process and working in small groups and collaborating with others when figuring out how their park would look. Students always prefer hands-on activities and building models to an exam. By creating a brochure, students put their ELA skills to the test, practicing their grammar and spelling.