Here at Learning Undefeated, our education team is constantly bringing new ideas and the latest technology to the classroom. This school year, we have a new data science activity for high school students that explores implications for artificial intelligence, plus four new Engineering Design Challenges for K-8 students. Let’s jump right in and take a look at the new curriculum, always free for teachers!
Alien Elements, Grades 9-12
Meets NGSS HS-PS1-1, HS-PS1-2; TEKS CHEM.5.A, CHEM.5.B; Virginia SOL CH.2C
In this activity, students are introduced to the field of data science and how it applies to the studies of chemistry. Students will use the physical and chemical properties of alien elements to group and sort them into a table that conveys information about relevant trends and patterns. Students will also be introduced to ideas of how data science can be predictive through the use of certain analytical tools. After completing the activity, students will be able to manipulate and interpret graphs to find trends and patterns in element properties, create a visualization of the patterns and trends identified, and model the side of a GAN to produce viable new molecular compounds.
NEW Engineering Design Challenges, Grades K-8 (TEKS aligned)
Meets current science TEKS 3.2C, 3.6B; math TEKS: 3.4F, 3.4G, 5.3K, 5.10F.Additional 2021 TEKS for grades 5&7 listed on the activity page.
In this design challenge, students learn about forces and motion by building their own catapults. They will work together to design a catapult that is able to land on two different targets. Bonus points will be awarded to those who successfully build the catapult and are able to launch a heavy care package to two different locations.
Meets current science TEKS: 3.4A, 3.6A; math TEKS: 1.3D, 1.3E, 1.5A, 2.2B, 2.3D, 2.4A, 2.9D; music TEKS: 1.2 A, 1.3A, 1.4A, 2.2B, 2.3A, 2.3C.
Art and education go hand in hand! In this challenge, students read the story, Finding My Dance by Ria Thundercloud before stepping into a world of self-discovery and dance. Students will design their own instruments, create a rhythm to communicate choreography to Ria while she dances and ensure the instrument can be heard on a stage 6 meters away.
Meets current science TEKS 2.5C, 2.5D; social studies TEKS 7.10A; 8.6B; math TEKS 2.2B, 2.4A, 2.9D, 3.4A, 3.4G.
K-8 students will learn about the history of the westward expansion in the U.S. and the difficulties that migrants faced while traveling. After being presented with the challenge of crossing a river with all of their belongings, they will build a bridge that can safely deliver travelers to the other side. Bonus points are awarded to groups that are able to add additional cargo to their wagons.
Meets current science TEKS 3.10A, 4.10A, 5.10A; math TEKS 3.1A, 3.1B, 3.1C, 3.1D, 3.2D, 3.3C, 3.4C, 3.4G, 3.4K, 3.6C, 3.7B, 3.9C, 4.1A, 4.1B, 4.1C, 4.1D, 4.4A, 4.4D, 4.5A, 4.5C, 4.5D, 4.6A, 4.6C, 4.8C, TEKS 5.1A, 5.1B, 5.1C, 5.2B, 5.4G, 5.4H, 5.6B; music TEKS 1.2 A, 1.3A, 1.4A, 2.2B, 2.3A, 2.3C
In the Stable Figures activity, elementary school students help a family build their dream barn that will be large enough to hold two horses, five chickens, and three pigs on their farm. They will use a variety of math equations and concepts to create a unique design that is strong enough to survive a windstorm.
These are just four of 16 activities in our engineering design curriculum. Click here to explore even more activities! These activities give students a chance to channel their inner scientists, build cool stuff, and level up their STEM skills. Take a look at the new activities, give them a try in class, and let us know what you think! You can tag us @LearningUNDFTD on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
