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Kindergarten PBL 1 2024-25

What type of toys can we create and sell to raise funds for Toys for TOTS?

Driving Question
 

 Wall Display

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Interdisciplinary Connection

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Students read the force passage as a class then highlighted the high frequency words in the passage at their STEM station. 

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Students read "The Gingerbread Man" then discussed float vs. sink. Students designed a bridge that would float for the gingerbread man.

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Students discussed how each object shows motion, then students identified the toys that were greater and less than.

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Students reviewed different types of materials then explored the classroom to identify different shapes with different types of materials.

Research and Building Background Knowledge

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Students engage in hands-on research on motion by observing and analyzing playground equipment in real-world settings and reflected in the STEM journal.
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Students engage in hands-on research, exploring various types of materials and documenting their observations and reflections in their STEM journals.

STEM Journal Samples

Journal 1

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Journal 2

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Related STEM Careers

Checkout the videos below to learn more about these STEM careers.
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Kindergarten Partnerships

Thanks to all of our partners!
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Students went on a field trip to Children's Museum of Atlanta to explore how toys incorporate motion.
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Students will sell their toys during of MIST Night in January 2025. Then all proceeds will be donated to Toys for Tots.
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Wolf Trap partnered with Kindergarteners for 10 weeks, using creative movement and storytelling to explore motion concepts through arts-integrated lessons.

Technology Integration Samples 

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Students create push and pull simulations using Scratch Jr..

Students constructed and coded a Lego car to show motion.

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Math Integration Samples

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Students graph class toys that show motion.

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Students participate in a mini sink the boat STEM challenge, which calls for them to count.

Rigor and Relevance Samples

Community Impact

This Kindergarten STEM PBL brought together creativity, hands-on learning, and community engagement to make a meaningful impact. Students explored the essential question, "What type of toys can we create and sell to raise funds for Toys for Tots?" Through this project, they gained insights into toy design, motion concepts, and the value of giving back to the community.

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Project Highlights:

  1. Hands-On Learning with Experts:

    • The students partnered with the Alliance Theater for creative PBL sessions, which enhanced their understanding of storytelling, teamwork, and presenting ideas.

    • A visit to Legoland provided a firsthand experience of how toys and structures can incorporate motion, inspiring their designs.

  2. Toy Creation:

    • Students designed and crafted their own toys that demonstrated concepts of motion, such as spinning, rolling, or bouncing.

    • They applied principles of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) while working collaboratively to bring their ideas to life.

  3. Fundraising Initiative:

    • The students hosted a toy sale event where they sold their creations to parents and community members.

    • All proceeds from the sales were donated to Toys for Tots, enabling children in need to receive gifts during the holiday season.

Impact on Student Learning:

  • Pre-Test to Post-Test Growth: At the start of the project, only 18% of students demonstrated an understanding of motion concepts. By the end of the project, 60% of students showed mastery through their assessments, reflecting significant learning growth.

Community Impact:

  • Charitable Contribution: The funds raised through the toy sale were donated to Toys for Tots, helping to brighten the holidays for children in need.

  • Family and Community Involvement: Parents and community members actively participated by purchasing the toys, fostering a sense of connection and shared purpose.

  • Student Empowerment: The project empowered young learners to see how their efforts and creativity could positively impact others, instilling values of empathy, teamwork, and problem-solving.

 

This STEM PBL project exemplified how education and service can intersect to create both meaningful learning experiences and tangible benefits for the community. Through their creativity and hard work, these kindergarten students made a difference while developing foundational skills and fostering a spirit of giving.

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