How to run a STEM challenge in the classroom

If you’ve ever watched your students light up while building something, you already know the magic of STEM. There’s something about letting kids plan, create, test, and improve that pulls out their best thinking — even from the quietest learners.

When I first started thinking about running STEM challenges, I’ll be honest — I wasn’t sure it was worth it! 

I pictured tape everywhere, lopsided towers, and students asking, “What do we do next?” 

But after years of trial, error, and lots of learning, I’ve found a simple structure that makes every STEM activity successful — even if you’re brand new to it.

Here’s how to run a STEM challenge in your elementary classroom that engages every student and builds real learning from start to finish.

How to run a STEM challenge in the classroom

Step 1: Choose a Clear and Engaging Challenge

The best STEM challenges start with a simple but interesting problem to solve. You want something open-ended — there’s no single “right” answer — but with just enough structure that students know what to do.

Look for challenges that connect to real-world problems or the current season. 

For example: during winter, I love challenges like

• Build the tallest ice tower.

• Design a sleigh that travels the farthest.

• Create a shelter that can withstand a “blizzard.”

These kinds of challenges tie science, engineering, and math concepts into something students can see, touch, and test.

Teacher Tip: Start small! Try one challenge a month or make it part of your STEM Friday routine. Once students learn the process, they’ll be ready for more complex builds.

Step 2: Prepare Materials and Set Clear Expectations

A little prep goes a long way in STEM. Before students arrive, gather simple supplies — things like straws, cardboard, tape, and paper cups — and sort them into bins or bags for easy distribution.

When you introduce the challenge, clearly explain:

• The goal (what they’re trying to build or solve)

• The constraints (what materials they can use)

• The testing rules (how their designs will be evaluated)

I also post these directions on the board so students can refer back as they work. It keeps everyone on track and prevents the constant “What are we supposed to do?”

Pro tip: Constraints encourage creativity! Giving students only 10 popsicle sticks or one meter of tape forces them to think strategically.

Step 3: Let Students Plan Before They Build

This is the step that most teachers (and students!) want to skip — but it’s where the real thinking happens.

Before you hand out materials, have students sketch their ideas and write down their plans. 

Ask them to predict what might work best and why. Encourage them to collaborate and combine ideas when possible.

When I first added a planning sheet to my challenges, I noticed an immediate change. Students were more organized, less frustrated, and prouder of their final designs. Plus, it builds that critical design thinking mindset — something they’ll use well beyond the classroom.

Step 4: Build, Test, and Observe

Now for the fun (and sometimes chaotic) part — building and testing!

Let students create their designs using the materials you’ve provided. Remind them that the goal isn’t perfection; it’s learning through iteration. Encourage them to test multiple times and make improvements.

As the teacher, your role here is to be a coach, not a director. Instead of giving them the answer, ask guiding questions like:

• “What might make your structure more stable?”

• “How could you reduce friction?”

• “What would happen if you changed the angle?”

The best STEM learning comes when students discover solutions for themselves.

And yes — things might get a little messy. That’s okay! Learning is supposed to be hands-on (and sometimes a little noisy).

Step 5: Reflect, Record, and Redesign

Reflection is where learning sticks. After the tests, have students analyze what happened.

Ask them to:

• Record results and measurements.

• Compare different designs.

• Identify what worked well and what they’d change next time.

You can do this through quick exit tickets, STEM journals, or a simple discussion circle.

My favourite question to ask: If you had one more day to improve your design, what would you do differently — and why?

That kind of thinking deepens understanding and helps students take ownership of their learning.

Step 6: Connect to Real-World Learning

Even a short conversation at the end can help students make real-world connections.

Try linking the challenge back to what scientists and engineers do in real life. 

For example:

• When we test ramps and sleighs, we’re studying force, motion, and friction.

• When we build ice towers, we’re exploring states of matter and temperature change.

• When we design shelters, we’re applying engineering and problem-solving just like architects and builders.

These real-world connections show students that STEM isn’t just a “fun activity” — it’s a window into how the world works.

Step 7: Celebrate and Share

STEM challenges are perfect opportunities to celebrate creativity and perseverance.

Set up a classroom “STEM Showcase” or bulletin board where students can display their final projects, sketches, and photos.

You can even create small awards like:

• “Most Creative Design”

• “Best Teamwork”

• “Strongest Structure”

When students see their work valued, their confidence in STEM grows — and so does their excitement to try again.

Make STEM Simple This Winter

Running a STEM challenge doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the right structure, you can transform any classroom into a hub of creativity and discovery — even if you’re new to STEM.

If you want everything done for you this season, check out my

Winter STEM Challenge Pack (Grades 4–6)

It includes: 

✅ Step-by-step teacher instructions (setup, prep, and testing tips) 

✅ Student planning sheets and design pages 

✅ Testing and data recording templates 

✅ Reflection questions that promote critical thinking 

✅ Extension ideas for deeper learning and differentiation

With 10 ready-to-use challenges, you’ll have engaging winter lessons that blend science, math, and engineering — without the prep stress.

➡️ Click here to grab your copy of the Winter STEM Challenge Pack (Grades 4–6) and give your students a reason to love learning this winter!