STEAM: Arts and Maker Activities in the Science Classroom

 

Here is a collection of my previous posts that fuse science topics with the arts and/or making things.

Decorate Classroom with Student Collages

This activity works well at the beginning of the school year or after a school break but can really be used anytime to foster a sense of community. While creating collages about themselves, students get to know each other better. Displaying their work helps give students a sense of belonging in the classroom space.

Edible Cell Model Made of Pasta

Try making edible cell models if you have other adult hands to help you. It requires a little juggling but is a lot of fun!

Trashion Show!

The annual Trashion Show was probably the most fun project for my students. I was always amazed by the outfits students came up with! This project takes time but is a memorable way to approach sustainability. It was also my secret for keeping students enthusiastic about coming to school as summer break grew closer.

Low-Prep Games for Teaching Vocabulary

Playing charades and guessing vocabulary words based on sketches are fun ways for students to develop their science vocabulary.

Drooling Pumpkin Lab

The art of making jack-o-lanterns is combined with learning about chemical reactions in this Halloween lab.

Illustrating Science Vocabulary: Plant Cell Organelles

Students illustrate the names of different plastids to help learn their meaning.

Future City Competition

Students design and then create a physical model of a city of the future using repurposed materials. Teams may simply create their cities as a class project or participate in an international competition.

Model Photosynthesis and Respiration with Berries

One of my former students said, "Now I get photosynthesis and respiration!" Manipulating the berries to simulate these chemical processes makes them more concrete- and they taste good, too! 

I hope this collection of lessons gives you some ideas for incorporating the arts into your science classes.