10 Resources to Encourage Your Gifted Student to Explore STEM
byConnections Academy
3 min to read
Caregivers often understand the constant challenge of finding activities for gifted students that stimulate their minds and keep them motivated in school. Enter the world of STEM, offering new opportunities for exploration and learning.
10 educational resources to satisfy your gifted student’s curiosity with STEM
STEM education encourages critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and applying knowledge to real-world scenarios through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
Activities that incorporate STEM can be enjoyed by students of all ages and skill levels. Caregivers and Learning Coaches of gifted students can use the following STEM activity ideas to supplement their day-to-day learning, introduce them to new STEM learning topics, or keep their brains active during school breaks.
Elementary School (Grades K-5)
Science
- Conduct exciting experiments at home: Utilize resources like The National Geographic Society, or other websites for gifted students like Learning Science, to conduct age-appropriate experiments that spark curiosity and encourage exploration.
Technology
- Learn basic coding concepts: Playful platforms like ScratchJr introduce young minds to the fundamentals of coding in a fun and engaging way, recommended by subject matter experts for their intuitive interfaces and age-appropriate challenges.
Engineering
- Participate in engineering design challenges: Websites like LEGO Education offer exciting engineering design challenges, where your child can use their creativity and knowledge to solve real-world problems.
Math
- Participate in online math competitions or challenges: Platforms like Math Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS) offer online math competitions and challenges that provide a fun and competitive environment to test their skills and knowledge.
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Science
- Participate in citizen science projects: Contribute to real-world scientific research by engaging in citizen science projects through platforms like SciStarter. These projects allow students to collaborate with scientists and contribute valuable data to ongoing research efforts.
Technology
- Learn advanced coding languages: Encourage them to explore coding languages like Python or Javascript through online courses or tutorials, junior coding camps, or age-appropriate books. These resources can provide structured learning paths and interactive exercises to build their coding skills.
Engineering
- Participate in robotics competitions: Put their engineering skills to the test by participating in robotics competitions like FIRST LEGO League to build and program their own robots using kits or online resources. These competitions provide a challenging and rewarding experience, encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation.
Math
- Participate in math competitions or challenges: Challenge their mathematical skills and compete with peers by participating in online or regional math competitions like Math Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS). These competitions provide a stimulating environment for problem-solving and applying mathematical concepts.
High School (Grades 9-12)
Science
- Conduct independent research projects: Encourage independent learning and research skills by guiding them through conducting their own research projects on topics that pique their interest. They can collaborate with mentors or professionals in their chosen field for deeper guidance. Resources like Science Buddies can help students find research opportunities and connect with mentors.
Technology
- Participate in hackathons or coding challenges: Test their skills, collaborate with other developers, and gain valuable experience by participating in hackathons or coding challenges focused on specific problems or themes. These events provide a stimulating environment for innovation, problem-solving, and networking with professionals in the tech industry.
Engineering
- Participate in internships or mentorship programs: Gain practical experience in real-world engineering projects by participating in internships or mentorship programs offered by engineering firms, research institutions, or universities. These programs allow them to work alongside professionals, apply their knowledge to practical applications, and gain valuable insights into the engineering field.
Math
- Participate in advanced math competitions: Challenge themselves with rigorous mathematical problems by participating in national or international math competitions like the American Mathematics Competition (AMC). These competitions require advanced problem-solving skills and offer opportunities to connect with other talented mathematicians.
Keep Exploring!
Remember, this is just a starting point! STEM offers endless possibilities for exploration, learning, and other resources for gifted students.
If your student is enrolled in a Connections Academy-supported school, they may be interested in joining a Gaming and Technology club or a STEM-related pop-up event.
By providing your gifted child with diverse learning experiences, fostering curiosity, and encouraging exploration, you can help them embark on a lifelong journey of discovery and innovation in STEM.
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