It’s week 3 of our Preschool STEAM Summer Series and this week we are gettin’ buggy! Build your own movable robotic bug with simple materials from the Dollar Store.
STEAM represents the combination of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Integrating STEAM based play is an easy and innovative way to enrich your preschooler’s learning.
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STEAM Challenge: Can you make a wiggle bot bug move?
Objective: Learn about the unique characteristics of bugs while creating your own robotic bug.
Materials:
- Book, Bugs, Bugs, Bugs By Bob Barner
- Pool Noodle
- Electric Toothbrush (may be found at the Dollar Store)
- Art materials (Tape, Googley Eyes, Pipe cleaners, Ribbon)
Teaching Strategy:
Read the book, Bugs, Bugs Bugs by Bob Barner. Discuss the unique features of different bugs.
If possible, go outside and observe bugs in their natural habitat.
Adult Prep: Cut pool noodle the length of the toothbrush and then insert it into the center of the pool noodle.
Use the art materials to transform the pool noodle into a bug!
We covered ours with tape and then added bug features with pipe cleaners, ribbon, beads, and permanent markers.
And don’t forget the googley eyes!
Next, test your wiggle bot. Does it move?
Guiding Questions:
- What is your favorite type of bug?
- Where do bugs live?
- What can you do to make your wiggle bot move faster or slower?
- What unique features do different bugs have?
STEAM Integrations:
Science: Go outside and observe what bugs you see in their natural habitat.
Technology: Use an electric toothbrush to motor your wiggle bot.
Engineering/Art: Design and build your bug.
Math: Measure the distance your wiggle bot can travel.
Sign up for our Summer STEAM Series and to get the Lesson Pack for this challenge!
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