Astronaut Boot STEM Challenge (K-5)
Student teams build astronaut boots using the Engineering Design Process to protect astronauts traveling to the Moon or Mars. Paper, bubble wrap, craft sticks, and other common supplies may be used for students to meet the constraints to protect an astronaut's feet in the harsh environment of space.
Grades: Kindergarten - 5th
Teaching Duration: 2 hours
“This was such a fun way to finish our space unit and work on our Engineering Design standards, as well. The kids loved it! ”
lesson overview
Astronaut Boot Moon and Mars STEM Activity
Student teams build astronaut boots using the Engineering Design Process to protect astronauts traveling to the Moon or Mars. Paper, bubble wrap, craft sticks, and other common supplies may be used for students to meet the constraints to protect an astronaut's feet in the harsh environment of space. Students learn about space suit design as well as history and current events of space exploration. This product has 2 options that connect students to real world STEM! Choose the Moon or Mars as the astronaut's destination and use the accompanying handouts to complete the mission!
As with many STEM activities that are student-driven, this challenge can be tailored to students of various skill levels and abilities.
Included in this product:
Detailed teachers guide with links to resources
Editable teacher slides and student handouts
Digital and printed STEM journals
Grading rubric for the engineering design process
STEM Career Connections
Real-world STEM history and science handouts
Student handouts to guide them through the engineering design process
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Bring Space Club to your school! If you are interested in a space-themed curriculum, check out our Space Club missions that connect students from around the world! Click here to register or apply for a grant.
Looking for more STEM lessons? Find the Vivify resource guide here: bit.ly/VivifyResourceGuide
About STEM Challenges: Click here to learn more about the 3 Stages of STEM. STEM challenges are an engaging way to incorporate the engineering design process into your classroom or after school program! These hands-on activities allow students to work in teams, apply the engineering design process, and connect science topics to real-world applications. The teacher will provide the structure to the project, but students will take an active role in designing and building their own device.
