Valentine’s Day STEM Challenges (February STEM)

Teacher friends,

Looking for a fun (and educational) way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with upper-elementary students?

It’s typical for students to begin losing focus in the classroom, especially during holidays. Real learning does not have to go out the window just yet, you just have to mask it such a way where it doesn’t quite seem like learning to students… but in fact, still is! These Valentine’s Day-themed challenges have science, technology, engineering, and measurement activities for your upper elementary kids that will really get their brains going during this winter season!

STEM groups of 4-5 students must create wings that are able to extend and close properly, creating a flapping motion. The wings must contain a pulling mechanism that allows the wings to close. When the mechanism is released, the wings must open. ***for more information and supplies used in the challenge, scroll down to the end of the post!

STEM groups of 3-4 students must create a Valentine’s Day Pinwheel. The group that can create a paper pinwheel that spins the fastest wins the challenge! At least 8 hearts need to be incorporated in the design.  ***for more information and supplies used in the challenge, scroll down to the end of the post!

STEM groups of 3-4 students must design a Valentine’s Day Mailbox. The mailbox must be large and sturdy enough to hold all of the group’s Valentine’s Day cards. It must be able to open and close easily with a flap and a tab. There must be a movable flag to show it contains cards. The mailbox cannot be larger than 12 inches long and 10 inches wide. ***for more information and supplies used in the challenge, scroll down to the end of the post!