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  • 3 Million-Dollar Middle School STEM Experiments on a Low-Dollar Budget

    3 Million-Dollar Middle School STEM Experiments on a Low-Dollar Budget

    Photo courtesy of Pixabay

    For middle schoolers, fostering a love for STEM can be rewarding and financially challenging. Many STEM activities cost thousands of dollars to recreate for a whole classroom, and most educators simply don’t have the funds. Fortunately, engaging young minds doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, any student can spark curiosity and enthusiasm for science using budget-friendly experiments! So, let’s dive into three STEM activities on a budget and see why they’re just as fun as they are educational.

    1. DIY Lava Lamps

    This activity invites middle schoolers to create their very own lava lamps! First, they’ll fill a bottle with water and food coloring. Then, they’ll add vegetable oil and antacid tablets (or baking soda and vinegar) to create a bubbling lava lamp effect. This experiment teaches students about the separation of water and oils and the chemical reactions between antacid tablets and water. Through this activity, middle schoolers can better explore the fantastic field of chemistry and begin to understand how different substances interact!

    Activity link: DIY Lava Lamps – Mcm.org

    Materials needed: empty bottles, water, food coloring, vegetable oil, and antacid tablets (or baking soda and vinegar).

    2. Straw Roller Coasters

    This activity allows middle schoolers to explore engineering in a fun and exciting way–roller coasters! Students will construct tracks for ping-pong balls from straws and hot glue (or tape) to engineer amazing roller coaster paths. Then, they can watch their ideas come to life by testing the track for the class. This activity is a great way to introduce students to the art of engineering and architecture, which are crucial aspects of the STEM field.

    Activity link: Straw Roller Coasters – Frugalfun4boys.com

    Materials needed: straws, hot glue or tape, and cardboard boxes.

    3. Soil Erosion Demonstration

    In this activity, students will explore the power of erosion in different soil conditions! First, they will fill three different plastic bottles with grass, leaf litter, mulch, and bare soil. Then, they will water each substrate with a watering can and examine how much soil runs off through erosion! This experiment showcases a scientific exploration of erosion and can lead to further discussions on the impacts of the issue on the environment. It can even become a lead-in to address engineering solutions to the erosion problem–including another aspect of STEM!

    Activity link: Erosion Demonstration – Osc.org

    Materials needed: three plastic bottles, six cups of soil, one cup of mulch with leaf litter, one square of grass, one watering can, three clear disposable cups, and three 12-inch pieces of twine.

    By Tyler King

    These three budget-friendly STEM experiments will captivate middle schoolers’ minds while providing valuable hands-on learning experiences. Whether creating unique lava lamps, engineering epic roller coasters, or exploring the principles of erosion, these activities demonstrate that STEM can be educational and entertaining–even on a tight budget. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and get ready for some STEM-filled fun!

    Do you want more resources on the topic of budget-friendly STEM activities? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources 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.

    Middle school is where students are transformed, entering as children and emerging as young adults. Project-based learning enrichment helps students “connect the dots” between STEM and real life, making math and science relevant for them and keeping them engaged and interested. With a meaningful middle school experience, students are far more likely to focus on STEM disciplines in high school and beyond. To start your 6-8 middle school chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • 4 Engaging Virtual STEM Programs for College/University Students

    4 Engaging Virtual STEM Programs for College/University Students

    Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

    STEM programs are essential for college and university students because they provide direct exposure to innovative research, technology, and hands-on experience. These skills help students prepare for employment in fields that promote innovation and societal advancement. In addition to expanding students’ knowledge of STEM fields, these programs help them develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities necessary to tackle challenging real-world problems. Here are four engaging virtual STEM programs for college/university students!

    1. Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program 

    Undergraduate students can participate in practical research activities in various STEM fields through the REU program. Students acquire valuable skills in data analysis, experimental design, and scientific communication through close collaboration on research projects with faculty mentors. REU programs give students hands-on research experience, allowing them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while exploring possible future routes in academia or industry. Participants usually receive housing, transportation assistance, and stipends. They also participate in seminars, workshops, and networking events to improve their research abilities and establish connections with peers and industry professionals. 

    2. NSF Innovation Corps (I-Corps) Program 

    The goal of the NSF I-Corps program is to train university staff and students in entrepreneurship to accelerate the industrialization of cutting-edge STEM research. Participants learn how to determine clients’ demands, evaluate the market potential of their research, and create viable business models. This program encourages STEM students to apply their scientific discoveries to real-world problems and launch businesses that have a social impact by teaching them entrepreneurial skills. The program includes discovering client interviews, startup team-building advice, and mentorship from seasoned business owners. Funding is given to teams to construct prototypes and perform market research.

    3. NASA Internships 

    NASA provides hands-on experience in aerospace research and technology development to undergraduate and graduate students studying various STEM subjects through internships. By working on projects about robotics, satellite missions, space exploration, and scientific research, interns acquire real-world experience in engineering, programming, and data analysis. NASA internships offer students a rare opportunity to participate in state-of-the-art research initiatives and investigate prospective career pathways in space science and engineering. Interns have access to the latest tools and technology, are mentored by NASA scientists and engineers, and are given a chance to present their work at conferences and meetings. 

    4. Google Summer of Code (GSoC)

    Under the guidance of experienced developers, GSoC is an international program that provides college students with stipends in exchange for their contributions to open-source software projects. By working on actual projects, participants gain practical experience in software development and learn new tools, best practices, and programming languages. GSoC gives students helpful experience working with international teams and making important contributions to projects that benefit the open-source community. Project developers mentor participants, online resources and documentation are available, and opportunities to interact with the larger open-source community via forums, mailing lists, and code reviews are provided. 

    In conclusion, these four virtual STEM programs, supported by NSTEM, offer college and university students invaluable hands-on experience, entrepreneurial skills, and diverse career pathways. These programs prepare students for success in today’s dynamic STEM landscape by fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while promoting diversity and inclusion.

    By Gayathri Narayanan

    Do you want more resources on the topic of STEM programs? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources 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. 

    When a college/university student achieves membership in the National STEM Honor Society, the recognition, like many colleges, is in a Greek letter format.  For the National STEM Honor Society, Epsilon Theta Mu is the designated recognition for members at the college/university level. Students are distinguished and stand out as a result of this recognition, increasing appealing employment and educational opportunities, click here.

  • Green Horizons: 4 Clean Energy Experimental Research Ideas for High Schoolers

    Green Horizons: 4 Clean Energy Experimental Research Ideas for High Schoolers

    Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

    Embark on a journey into clean energy! This blog will explore four hands-on clean energy experimental research ideas designed to engage high school students in the exciting world of clean energy.

    1. Energy-Efficient Lighting Comparison 

    Students can compare the energy usage and brightness of various light bulb types, including LED, compact fluorescent (CFL), and incandescent lights. They can measure light levels with a lux meter and energy consumption with a wattmeter. They should also consider cost and lifetime. The project aims to increase public knowledge of energy-efficient lighting solutions and their financial and environmental advantages. It encourages students to make knowledgeable decisions regarding lighting options and supports energy saving. 

    2. Wind Energy Conversion Experiment 

    PVC pipes, wooden blades, and a DC motor are just a few of the items that high school students can use to design and construct a tiny wind turbine. After that, they can use a multimeter or data recorder to measure the voltage output that the turbine produces at various wind speeds. They can change wind direction, blade length, and angle to maximize performance. This experiment investigates how wind energy is converted into electrical power and what factors affect wind turbine efficiency. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of renewable energy engineering and aerodynamics. 

    Link to experiment: Wind Energy Conversion – National Renewable Energy Laboratory Education Programs

    3. Biodegradable Plastic Production 

    Students can experiment with various biomass sources, such as potato or cornstarch, to create biodegradable plastics. They may use an extraction method, combine it with polymers and other ingredients, and then form the resulting mixture into things that resemble plastic. Your students can test the resultant plastics’ mechanical qualities and biodegradability. This project aims to lessen dependency on fossil fuels by encouraging the use of renewable resources for the sustainable production of plastics. It draws attention to the advantages biodegradable plastics provide for the environment and inspires pupils to look into creative ways to reduce plastic pollution. 

    4. Solar Water Heater 

    Students can build a basic solar water heater using supplies like tubing, a reflective surface, and cans painted black. When they expose it to sunshine, they can add water and track how the temperature rises over time. You can also evaluate various designs and configurations to maximize heat transfer and absorption. This project aims to show how well solar energy can heat water for usage in homes or businesses. It motivates students to investigate renewable energy sources and comprehend absorption and heat transfer concepts. 

    Link to experiment: Solar Water Heater – National Renewable Energy Laboratory Education Programs

    These four clean energy experiments teach STEM concepts and foster a deeper understanding of renewable energy solutions. Explore NSTEM’s resources and consider starting a chapter of the National STEM Honor Society to further support students’ STEM education achievements.

    By Gayathri Narayanan

    Do you want more resources on the topic of clean energy experiments? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources 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.

    Project-based learning enrichment provides high school students with college and career readiness. It gives them real-world relevance, transforming students into collaborators and imaginative problem solvers. They will gain the upper hand in a global landscape, stemming from enhanced confidence and grit. NSTEM provides these young STEM enthusiasts with a close community of like-minded fellow students and educators.  To start your 9-12 Chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • Eco Futures: Exploring 4 Careers in Sustainability and Green Industries

    Eco Futures: Exploring 4 Careers in Sustainability and Green Industries

    Photo courtesy of Pixabay

    In a world that is increasingly in tune with the urgency of environmental defense, careers in sustainability and green industries are increasingly popular opportunities for personal growth and contributing to a more sustainable future. As the world moves into heightened environmental consciousness, those passionate about environmental protection are moving into more diverse career paths in sustainability. Here are four promising careers at the forefront of the sustainability movement!

    1. Environmental Engineer

    Environmental engineers work throughout their careers to control environmental hazards through engineering. They focus on meeting regulations for environmental protection and defending the environment by engineering solutions to environmental destruction. They might be seen working with big corporations to engineer better production practices or helping other organizations engineer more sustainable business solutions. This career relates most closely to the branches of environmental science and engineering. The median salary for this career is $96,530 per year, which is a reasonably large figure.

    2. Sustainability Manager

    Sustainability managers are in charge of the corporate aspect of sustainability. They assist organizations in limiting their environmental impacts while supporting their business goals. These professionals help companies engage in more environmentally friendly practices and remain in accordance with environmental legislation. This career is another environmental science career that deals with business. The median salary for this career is $105,221 per year.

    3. Environmental Consultant

    Environmental consultants are environmental scientists who work to create and edit government policies for environmental protection. They typically provide their clients with expert assessments and advice on implementing policies and procedures to protect the environment and abide by environmental regulations. These professionals work within both ecological science and public policy. The median salary for this career is $60,799 per year.

    4. Environmental Scientist

    Environmental scientists use science to study the environment and its impacts on humans. They work in laboratories or the field to examine and assess environmental threats and respond to them accordingly. These professionals can collaborate with other organizations and institutions to help them develop solutions to environmental problems, similar to other careers on this list. This career is the face of environmental science. The median salary for this career is $78,980 per year.

    Overall, sustainable careers and green industries create unique pathways to meaningful work for those interested in environmental protection. These careers address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. Whether it’s any of these four careers or another one in the industry, individuals have countless opportunities to make a difference in the environment while pursuing their professional aspirations. With these eco-friendly career paths, individuals can play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future for future generations.

    By Tyler King

    Do you want more resources on the topic of environmental careers? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources 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.

    Project-based learning enrichment provides high school students with college and career readiness. It gives them real-world relevance, transforming students into collaborators and imaginative problem solvers. They will gain the upper hand in a global landscape, stemming from enhanced confidence and grit. NSTEM provides these young STEM enthusiasts with a close community of like-minded fellow students and educators.  To start your 9-12 Chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • The Science Behind Climate Change: A Middle School Student-Friendly Guide

    The Science Behind Climate Change: A Middle School Student-Friendly Guide

    Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

    This blog will explore the intricacies of climate change through four hands-on activities and experiments for middle school students. Students will explore the fascinating world of greenhouse gases, air pollution, melting glacial ice, and the greenhouse effect.

    1. Greenhouse Gas Edible Models

    Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of greenhouse gases! This first hands-on activity will introduce students to various greenhouse gases, including their composition, origins, and impacts. Students will construct delicious methane, ozone, chlorofluorocarbons, nitrous oxide, water vapor, and carbon dioxide models using toothpicks or cocktail sticks and colorful gummy sweets. But this isn’t just any sweet treat – each color-coded gummy represents a different atom, such as carbon, hydrogen, chlorine, oxygen, and fluorine. Guide your students by modeling the chemical structures of each greenhouse gas with your gummies. As they construct their miniature chemical structures, explain to them where each gas is released from and the negative impacts they have on our environment if released excessively. At the end of this activity, as your students eat their yummy creations, you can discuss a few simple ways that we can reduce carbon emissions. By the end of this activity, students will not only satisfy their sweet tooth but also leave with a deeper understanding of greenhouse gases and how they shape our planet. 

    2. Air Particle Experiment

    Uncover the secrets of air pollution and particles with this second experiment! Students will delve into the question: does indoor or outdoor air have more particles? Using two labeled index cards for the two different areas, smear petroleum jelly or put double-sided invisible tape in the middle of each card. Air particles will land on the sticky areas. Have your students lay their “Indoor Area” card on an open, flat surface inside the classroom; lay their “Outdoor Area” card on a flat surface outside the classroom, securing it with a rock. After 6 or 7 days, your students will compare their two cards with a magnifying glass, noting differences. This experiment aims to enlighten middle schoolers on pollution and its impact on our environment, visually witnessing its effects. 

    3. Melting Glacial Ice

    In this third activity, students will investigate the effects of water contact on melting ice and observe basic energy transfer. As climate change causes warmer temperatures to melt glaciers, the state of the glaciers becomes increasingly urgent. Students will simulate the interactions between water and ice. The materials needed for this activity are two identical plastic containers, ice cubes, room-temperature water, food coloring, and a timer. Students will first add an equal amount of colored ice cubes to each container and a small amount of water to one container. Next, they will time how long the ice cubes melt in each container. Students will eagerly observe the time and melting process as the countdown begins. Meanwhile, you can follow up with intriguing discussion questions, such as: what are the impacts of melting glaciers on Earth? Through this demonstration, students will learn the causes and effects of melting glaciers.

    4. The Tale of Two Thermometers

    In this last outdoor experiment, students will learn how certain materials trap heat. They will test what happens to the temperature of a covered glass container on a sunny day, mirroring the greenhouse effect. You must use two thermometers, a clear jar, plastic wrap, and a recording sheet. First, students will lay both thermometers for a few minutes outside and record the temperatures and time. Next comes the exciting part: they will cover one of the thermometers with plastic wrap and place it inside the jar. Then, they will place both thermometers back outside and record the temperatures every 5-10 minutes. Throughout the experiment, students will witness the greenhouse effect and gain a deeper understanding of how greenhouse gases shape our planet’s temperature.

    In conclusion, these four hands-on activities equip middle school students with a deeper understanding of the science behind climate change. Students are not only more informed but also inspired to take action towards a more sustainable future.

    By Elizabeth Antenucci

    Do you want more resources on the topic of climate change? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources 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. 

    Middle School is where students are transformed, entering as children and emerging as young adults. Project-based learning enrichment helps students connect the dots between STEM and real life, making math and science relevant for them and keeping them engaged and interested. With a meaningful middle school experience, students are far more likely to focus on STEM disciplines in high school and beyond. To start your 6-8 middle school chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.

  • The U.S. Progress with Single-Use Plastic Bans

    The U.S. Progress with Single-Use Plastic Bans

    Photo courtesy of Unsplash

    Plastic pollution was first recognized in the mid 1900s when plastic debris was beginning to be found in our oceans. Since then, plastic production has increased, but so have efforts to combat the use of plastic. However, every year around 400 million tons of plastic is produced globally. Convenience is one of the main reasons keeping plastic alive. It’s cost-effective, water resistant, and durable. However, single-use plastics (straws, plastic bottles, utensils, etc.) are discarded too easily, carelessly ending up in the streets and natural spaces where they break down into microplastics and pose a toxic threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and humans. The U.S. has one of the highest plastic consumption rates in the world. Plastic has integrated itself in our society in such a way that even though we are now aware of its harmful effects on the environment, removing even single-use plastics is proving a challenge. However, with raising awareness and implementation of plastic bans, there has been improvement among the states towards a cleaner and safer future.

    Currently, the U.S. has not placed a single-use plastic ban on a federal level, but this responsibility has been taken up by states and cities. Connecticut, California, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New York, Oregon, and Vermont have all placed bans on plastic bags. San Francisco was the first city to completely ban plastic bags in 2007. The rest of California implemented their plastic bag ban in 2014, and since then there has been a 70% reduction in plastic bag usage within the state. However, you can still find plastic bags in grocery stores, as rules have not been properly enforced over the past few years. New York faces a similar situation, as plastic bags were banned in the state in 2020 but some businesses still continue to distribute them; again mostly due to lax enforcement of pollution rules. Some of this can be attributed to COVID-19, which complicated efforts towards reducing plastic usage. The surge in gloves, masks, and other PPE have been detrimental to the health of our oceans. Since the beginning of the pandemic, oceans have seen more than 57 million pounds of COVID-related waste. On a brighter note, as the world is starting to recover from the effects of the pandemic, attention is returning to the effects of plastic on the environment, with stricter enforcement. The pandemic has brought to attention once again how serious the plastic pollution problem is, and the many pollution reduction policies that have been suspended or postponed are being put into effect again.

    Looking to the future, the U.S. Interior Department has stated that by 2032, single-use plastic products will be phased out of national parks and some public lands. Around 480 million acres of federal land will be under this new legislation. In an attempt to carry this out, the department is working to set up their plan of action, including installing more water fountains and influencing unsustainable public behavior for the better. This is predicted to reduce around 14 million tons of plastic that ends up in our oceans.

    Though it may be some time before plastic bans will be implemented on a federal level, the current focus should be on what can be done on a smaller scale, such as in cities and counties. Since one of the main issues is compliance to these bans, check to see if your city or state has bans already in place and actively follow the guidelines for them. You can check your local government’s website or conduct a simple search online to see what plastic reduction ordinances are put into place. It may be difficult to realize if your area is under a single-use plastic ban, so spreading the word to friends and family is an easy way to raise awareness so people can be more conscious about their plastic use choices.

    By Seaside Sustainability

    Do you want more resources on the topic of plastic? 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.

    Credit to Seaside Sustainability

    References

    Baxter, D. (2022, June 3). States with promising single-use plastic bans. PlantSwitch. Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.plantswitch.com/single-use-plastic-ban/

    Cohen, L. (2021, November 12). More than 57 million pounds of PPE and other Covid-related plastic waste have polluted the oceans since pandemic began, study finds. CBS News. Retrieved February 11, 2023, from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ppe-plastics-waste-polluting-ocean-covid-19-pandemic/

    Newburger, E. (2022, June 8). U.S. to ban sale of single-use plastic on public lands, national parks by 2032. CNBC. Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.cnbc.com/2022/06/08/us-to-ban-sale-of-single-use-plastic-on-public-lands-national-parks-by-2032.html

    Repko, M., & Newburger, E. (2021, March 17). Covid-19 worsened the single-use plastics problem. here’s why it could also fuel solutions. CNBC. Retrieved February 9, 2023, from https://www.cnbc.com/2021/03/17/covid-19-worsened-single-use-plastics-problem-but-could-fuel-solutions.html

    Los Angeles Times. (2022, November 4). Editorial: What plastic bag ban? California stores still doling out disposable sacks. Los Angeles Times. Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2022-11-04/editorial-californias-plastic-bag-ban-not-working

    Plastic bag bans: Curbing the confusion around compliance. Broadway Industries. (2022, April 25). Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://broadwayind.com/plastic-bag-bans-curbing-the-confusion-around-compliance/

    Plastics bans in the US: Where they are and how to comply with them. UrthPact. (2021, November 11). Retrieved February 9, 2023, from https://www.urthpact.com/plastics-bans-in-the-us-where-they-are-and-how-to-comply-with-them/

    Top 25 recycling facts and statistics for 2022. World Economic Forum. (n.d.). Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/06/recycling-global-statistics-facts-plastic-paper/