Welcome, Charlee the STEM Star!

Today, you're going to become a STEM leader! Your mission is to design and prepare a super fun, hands-on STEM project that you can lead for a group of first graders. It needs to be awesome, engaging, and fit into about 25-30 minutes. Let's get started!

Step 1: Brainstorming Bonanza! (10 mins)

Think about first graders (around 6-7 years old). What kind of science stuff do they like? What keeps their attention?

• What makes learning fun for little kids? (Colors? Building? Getting a little messy? Surprises?)
• What STEM topics might be cool for them? (Floating/sinking? Building things? Simple reactions? Plants? Bugs?)
• Think about safety: What should we definitely AVOID? (Sharp objects? Toxic materials? Complicated steps?)

Jot down some ideas in your notebook!

Step 2: Project Selection Power! (15 mins)

Let's find the perfect project! Use the internet (with adult supervision if needed) to search for 'simple STEM projects for 1st grade' or 'easy science activities for kids'.

Consider these things for each potential project:

• Time: Can it realistically be done (including explanation and cleanup) in 25-30 minutes?
• Simplicity: Are the steps easy enough for 6-7 year olds to understand and do (mostly) themselves?
• Engagement: Does it look FUN? Will they be excited to try it?
• Materials: Are the materials easy to get, safe, and not too expensive?
• 'Wow' Factor: Does it have a cool result or teach a simple, interesting idea?

Choose ONE project you think is the best fit. Write down its name.

Step 3: Planning Your Project Like a Pro! (25 mins)

Now, let's map out your chosen activity. Be detailed!

1. Project Goal: In one sentence, what simple thing will the first graders learn or do? (Example: 'See how different shapes make towers strong,' or 'Discover which objects float and sink.')
2. Materials List: List EVERYTHING needed. Be specific! How many per student or group? (Example: 'Per student: 10 marshmallows, 20 toothpicks, 1 paper plate'). Include things like napkins for cleanup!
3. Step-by-Step Instructions: Write down the exact steps the kids will follow. Use simple words. Number them. Think about how *you* will explain it. (Example: '1. Give each student a paper plate with marshmallows and toothpicks. 2. Explain we're building towers! 3. Show them how to connect a marshmallow and toothpick. 4. Let them build for 15 minutes...')
4. Your Script/Talking Points: What will you say at the beginning? How will you explain the goal? What questions can you ask them while they work? ('What happens if you try...?'. 'What do you notice?') How will you wrap up?
5. Timing Breakdown: Estimate how long each part will take: Your introduction (3 min), Activity Time (15-20 min), Sharing/Wrap-up (3 min), Cleanup (4 min). Does it fit in 25-30 minutes? Adjust if needed.

Step 4: Gathering Your Gear! (15 mins)

Based on your Materials List, gather everything you'll need for the *actual* activity with the first graders. Organize it. Do you need to put materials into individual bags or kits? Do it now!

Step 5: Rehearsal Time! (15 mins)

Practice makes perfect! Pretend you're talking to the first graders.

• Practice explaining the activity clearly and simply.
• Walk through the steps out loud.
• Practice asking your questions.
• Time yourself roughly.
• If you have a practice buddy (like a parent), teach it to them! Ask for feedback. Were your instructions clear? Did you sound friendly and encouraging?

Step 6: Final Check & Confidence Boost! (5 mins)

Look over your plan and materials. Do you feel ready? What are you most excited about? Is there anything you're a little nervous about? (It's okay to be nervous!) Think about one thing you can do if the kids get stuck or aren't listening (e.g., give a simple reminder, ask a helper for assistance, show an example again).

Congratulations! You've designed your very own STEM leading experience. You're ready to prepare to be an awesome STEM Star for those first graders!