Authentic Lessons for 21st Century Learning
This PD introduces the use of Swivl™ robots in the classroom. Participants will go through the process of setting up the bot, recording video, uploading video to the cloud, and accessing previously saved videos. Additionally, participants will discuss possible uses of Swivl bots both for instructional... Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: May 11th, 2026
In this activity, students design a system to encode or decode messages using ancient Egyptian systems or other cryptology methods. Once they have determined which coding system they wish to use, they will plan, create a message, test, and refine their designs, exploring problem-solving, logic, and... Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: May 5th, 2026
The STEM Challenge collection engages students in hands-on, inquiry-based activities that blend creativity with scientific reasoning and engineering design. Each lesson challenges learners to solve real-world problems—whether designing protective egg containers, building wind turbines, or constructing... Read more »
In this activity, students construct original structures using provided materials. They will plan, create a prototype, test, and refine designs to meet criteria such as stability, height, or aesthetics, emphasizing creative problem-solving and collaboration. Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: February 26th, 2026
In this activity, students design and build a wind turbine model to generate energy. They will test different blade designs, angles, and materials, refining prototypes through iteration and learning to apply scientific principles to engineering challenges. Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: February 26th, 2026
In this activity, students will create a short commercial showcasing a STEM invention or solution. They will collaborate on planning, storyboarding, producing, and revising their videos, learning to communicate scientific and engineering ideas effectively. Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: March 12th, 2026
In this activity, students design and test a model high-speed train or track system. They will investigate speed, stability, and efficiency while applying the engineering design process to improve their prototypes through iteration and testing. Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: February 26th, 2026
In this activity, students design and build small vehicles powered by gravity or other forces. They will create a prototype, test, and refine their designs while exploring principles of motion, friction, and engineering iteration. Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: January 29th, 2026
In this activity, students design and construct a working kaleidoscope using mirrors and reflective materials. They will iterate their designs to enhance visual effects, learning the importance of careful planning, testing, and collaboration. Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: January 29th, 2026
In this activity, students select a real-world problem, research solutions, calculate parameters, build a model, and test it. They will iterate their designs while reflecting on the effectiveness of their approach and the importance of data-driven decisions. Read more »
Created by: Bradly Cusack
Date Updated: January 29th, 2026
