The Great Arctic Circle STEM Challenge
 
This resource includes 5 themed STEM challenges centered around the story of a group of stranded arctic explorers. 
 
Begin by showing students the "movie trailer" (preview video) to build interest. Then, after hearing the story of the failed expedition, students will read 5 diary entries. Each one will challenge them to design something to help the group make it back to base camp.
 
Includes 5 different challenges:
Arctic Architect: Construct An Igloo 
Bundle Up: Design A Blanket
Polar Bear Defense: Snowball Shooter
Lookout Mountain: Build A Tower
Lookout Mountain: Design A Parachute
 
These STEM challenges use common materials that you probably already have in your classroom (Please see the preview for a list).
 
They incorporate concepts of:
linear measurement
weight measurement
area
force and motion
properties of shapes
simple machines
the scientific process
 
 
Each STEM challenge in this pack includes:
teacher instructions
student challenge sheet
planning and design pages
scoring rubric 
 
There is also:
introdutory "hook" video
team member role cards
design process cards
master score sheet
associated NGSS standards. 
 
Both metric and standard (imperial) versions are included.
 
📽️ VIDEO
The intro video is included in the file but can also quickly be viewed online here: The Great Arctic Circle video introduction
 
Each challenge in this pack is fully planned out making it easy to get started. They are also highly engaging because students are involved in solving a real-life problem. 
 
 
✪ "LOVE the creativity of this product, and also how the activities weave into a story that the kids can really relate to. Great STEM activities with minimal prep and materials. Great product! Thanks!" - Kimberly