By Srihitha Sunkara
As winter blankets the world in a glistening layer of snow, there is an opportunity to turn this season into an educational adventure for elementary school students. We will embark on a journey through the delicate and enchanting world of snowflakes. These unique ice crystals bring joy to snowy landscapes and serve as fascinating scientific exploration subjects. We have found three engaging websites, each offering snowflake science lessons and activities tailored specifically for students in grades 3-5. From the intricate formations to the historical significance of snowflake photography, these resources promise to make learning about the science of snowflakes an unforgettable experience. So, let’s dive into the wonders of winter, where science meets the magic of snow, and discover the captivating world of snowflake STEM activities for young minds.
1. SnowCrystals.com – Snowflake Science Lessons
- Significance: SnowCrystals.com, run by physicist Dr. Kenneth G. Libbrecht, is a fantastic resource for snowflake science. This site provides detailed lessons on the science behind snowflakes, including their formation and unique crystalline structures.
- How it Works: This website offers engaging and interactive lessons suitable for elementary school students. It includes visually appealing diagrams and videos that simplify complex concepts, making it easy for young learners to grasp the science of snowflakes.
- What it Teaches: Students will learn about the physics and chemistry involved in the formation of snowflakes. The lessons cover water vapor, temperature, and crystal growth topics. Additionally, hands-on activities allow students to create paper snowflakes, reinforcing the scientific principles they have learned.
2. National Geographic Kids – Snowflake Science
- Significance: National Geographic Kids is a reputable source known for its educational content. The snowflake science section provides a kid-friendly approach to understanding the science behind these delicate ice crystals.
- How it Works: This website offers interactive games, videos, and articles that make learning about snowflakes engaging and entertaining. The content is designed specifically for elementary school students, ensuring it aligns with their comprehension levels.
- What it Teaches: Students will explore snowflakes’ unique characteristics, the snow formation science, and the various types of snow crystals. The interactive elements make learning a fun and memorable experience.
3. STEM Activities for Kids – Snowflake Bentley Lesson
- Significance: STEM Activities for Kids provides a lesson inspired by Wilson Bentley, known as “Snowflake Bentley,” the first person to photograph snowflakes. This lesson combines history with hands-on science.
- How it Works: This lesson plan guides students through the life and contributions of Snowflake Bentley, followed by an activity where they can create their snowflake art using basic materials.
- What it Teaches: In addition to learning about the science of snowflakes, this activity introduces students to the historical aspect of snowflake photography. It encourages creativity and artistic expression while reinforcing scientific concepts.
In conclusion, exploring the science of snowflakes through these three engaging activities can spark a festive interest in STEM for grades 3-5 students. NSTEM, with its vast resources and community, complements these activities by providing a platform for students and educators to explore STEM subjects further. To delve deeper into STEM and inspire young minds, consider starting an NSTEM chapter at your school. The National STEM Honor Society offers a supportive community, resources, and opportunities for students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Do you want more resources on the topic of the science of snowflakes? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of STEM resources that are searchable by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.
Grades 3-5 continue the STEM education journey, where students are interested in the natural world, in how things work, responding to stories told by teachers that give purpose and meaning to STEM disciplines, which molds them into thinkers, problem solvers, and creators. The National STEM Honor Society sees grades 3-5 as a critical point in the NSTEM journey. To start your grade 3-5 chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.
