Leprechaun Trap with Simple Machines - STEM Challenge

This is a ready to use STEM challenge featuring the story Leprechaun on the Loose. We use the book as the hook and then the students learn about simple machines! Then students are asked to build some sort of trap to catch that sneaky leprechaun. This is just a great St. Patrick's Day STEM Challenge that will keep you students engaged! I do this lesson with 1st graders and 4th graders. This challenge focuses on GA Science Standard of Excellence - 4th grade S4P3C. In the past, my students have come up with some pretty amazing traps. This lesson gives you information about the book and links to the science of simple machines. Then it gives you the challenge, suggested materials, and guides you through the process of getting kids ready to complete the challenge. This one is set-up to be used with 1st grade to 5th grade. However, this activity could be used with any grade level and you could adjust the materials as needed for the age of the child. I use the book as the hook and then turn the problem into our STEM challenge. I have my students for 45 minutes at a time. You could possibly extend it into a two or three week lesson activity. Please feel free to share any feedback. I have more resources if you feel this one was helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to look at my resources!

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