Teacher Experience: “Numbers at Work” Task for 2nd Grade Science & STEM Students

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

Performance Task:
Numbers at Work

Here’s What We Did:
During this great hands-on project, students built a model of a greenhouse using recycled materials. Students were excited to build something and practice counting in the process. Students worked in groups of four, with defined jobs for each. They quickly analyzed the problem at hand and had to determine how many sides, panels, and water bottles they would need for the model. As a class, they decided on a six-sided model, and to tape four bottles in a row to create panels. By organizing the bottles into six equal groups of four, students constructed six panels for the model. As a class, they also determined the best option for attaching panels to create the final greenhouse. Along with the 3D model, students drew a clearly labeled picture of what the greenhouse should look like and designed a creative sign for it using the plastic bottle caps.

Why Defined STEM Was the Perfect Fit:
As a teacher, it was amazing to see how much base knowledge students are able to activate when motivated by a project like this. Students were eager for this project because it put their real-world skills to the test. They were excited to build something that impacts the environment and uses recycled materials most students thought of as trash. It was a great opportunity to practice working in a group, using numbers, and categorizing.