Engage children in solving real-world problems with Skill Sharpeners: STEAM. STEAM is an approach to project-based learning that uses science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics to engage children in empathizing, thinking critically, collaborating, and coming up with solutions to solve real-world problems.
Skill Sharpeners: STEAM is where creativity meets academics. Each unit includes a fun hands-on STEAM project that encourages children to enjoy the journey of creating and sharing his or her solution to help create a better world.
Skill Sharpeners: STEAM activity books for grade 5 are organized around 9 real-world topics related to the environment, the Earth, people and cultures, and social and emotional learning. Topics include themes such as:
• Diversity STEAM task: Create a book about diverse people who inspire you.
• Shelter in Place STEAM task: Design and make a stay-at-home kit with original activities.
• Community Centers STEAM task: Create and give a presentation to persuade a town council that a community center is valuable.
• Tiny Houses STEAM task: Create a pamphlet to persuade people to buy a tiny house.
• Not Enough Classrooms STEAM task: Decorate a T-shirt for a fundraiser.
Each unit includes a grade-appropriate story or nonfiction reading article, a STEAM task to solve, and activities that provide an integrated approach to learning:
• Science: important concepts and vocabulary related to the unit’s theme
• Technology: models about how technology is applied in the real world
• Engineering: examples of engineering solutions in the world
• Art: creative solutions through art projects
• Math: math operations to figure out solutions
Plus, each title includes a:
• Career spotlight that highlights specific careers related to the topic
• Supply list for each STEAM task
• Bonus STEAM puzzle
• Certificate of completion
• Answer key
Bonus feature: Each book includes a downloadable Teaching Guide ($19.99 value!) for using this series in a classroom or homeschool. The Teaching Guide provides instructional support, extension activities, and a sample pacing plan and template.
Skill Sharpeners: STEAM creates entertaining and fun activities that get children thinking and learning without even realizing it.