During the week of April 13–17, while students at Timothy Christian School focused diligently on their standardized IOWA testing, they also participated in Elementary STEM Week! This week gave students the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on, creative learning experiences.
Each grade participated in activities designed to spark curiosity and encourage problem-solving. Our youngest learners in kindergarten explored basic engineering concepts by creating origami boats, discovering how folding and structure can bring ideas to life.
First and second grade students worked with playdough and toothpicks to build both 2D shapes and 3D figures, strengthening their understanding of geometry in a fun, tactile way. First grade also spent time in the outdoor classroom planting flower seeds in biodegradable pots, connecting science with God’s creation. Meanwhile, second grade added an artistic STEM twist by crafting butterflies using recycled materials like toilet paper rolls and construction paper.
Third grade students dove into both life science and environmental exploration. They dissected owl pellets, gaining insight into food chains and animal diets, and also engineered solar-powered s’more ovens using boxes and tin foil, then tested them outside in the sun!
Fourth graders took their learning to the greenhouse, where they planted and cared for plants, experiencing firsthand the science behind growth and sustainability.
Fifth grade students put their engineering skills to the test with a classic egg drop challenge. Working in teams, they designed protective structures using various materials to keep their eggs from breaking upon impact. Out of six groups, four successfully completed the challenge which showed their creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
In addition to these grade-level activities, all elementary students are participating in a school-wide STEM project centered around creativity and design. This year’s theme, “The Wonders of the World,” invites students to build iconic structures such as the Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building, Golden Gate Bridge, or the Colosseum, using only dry pasta. To tie in with the school’s butterfly theme, students are encouraged to incorporate a butterfly into their designs.
Projects were collected during the week of April 20 and judged in classrooms. Congratulations to the Pasta Project winners:
1st: David & Daniel – Golden Gate Bridge
2nd: Cassidy – Japanese Temple
3rd: Ewin – Eiffel Tower with lights
Honorable mentions:
Reagan – The Mayan Steps (Mexico)
Ezra – World Trade Center
STEM Week at TCS continues to be a highlight of the year, offering students a meaningful break from testing while reinforcing important academic concepts through creativity, exploration, and hands-on discovery!