Students design, test and improve models using real-world STEM ideas. They explore forces, data, sustainability and teamwork.
EU Skills Focus: 🖥 Digital • 🌱 Green • 🤝 Social • 💡 Entrepreneurial
🖥
Digital
Data templates, fair-test logs and responsible use.
🌱
Green
Efficient designs, reuse guidance and eco storage.
🤝
Social
Roles, peer review and presentation skills.
💡
Entrepreneurial
Design - test - iterate; link to STEM careers.
🎯 Curriculum Units
1
Design & Prototyping
Focus: Plan - build - test - improve cycle
5 Lessons
2
Forces & Motion
Focus: Force, friction, balance
5 Lessons
3
Data, Variables & Fair Tests
Focus: Experiment setup, data accuracy
5 Lessons
4
Simple Mechanisms & Ratios
Focus: Gears, pulleys, ratios and movement
5 Lessons
5
Measurement, Area & Perimeter
Focus: Measuring space (L×W)
5 Lessons
6
Environment & Sustainability
Focus: Efficient design and resource reuse
4 Lessons
7
STEM Fair Challenge
Focus: Cross-disciplinary project combining design, data and presentation skills
1 day
🌍 Curriculum Alignment
Alignment to major frameworks for Grades 3–4.
| Framework | References | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NGSS 3–4 | ETS1.A–C; PS2.A–B; ESS3.A | Design cycle, forces and motion, sustainability |
| Cambridge Stage 3–4 | Sc4–6; M3–4; GP3–4 | Data handling, measurement, fair tests |
| IB PYP | How the world works | Causation, Connection, Change, Responsibility |
🧠 Skills Progression Map
Progression across units.
| Skill Domain | Focus |
|---|---|
| Inquiry | Plan tests, record, and reflect |
| Design thinking | Prototype, test, improve |
| Measurement | Length, area, perimeter |
| Data handling | Variables, fair tests, accuracy |
| Communication | Explain models and results |
| Collaboration | Team roles and peer feedback |
| Sustainability | Efficient use of resources |
| Reflection | Metacognition and next steps |
| Problem-solving | Debug and iterate |
| Career awareness | Link to real STEM roles |
🧰 Teacher Toolkit
Materials
- 400–600 LEGO per team
- Rulers, sticky notes, baseplates
- Data templates and photo device
Group Setup
- Roles: Designer - Builder - Tester - Reporter
- Clear test zones and display area
- Rotation and peer review
Assessment
- Mini 4‑point rubric
- Observation cards
- Fair-test planner and logs
Eco & Safety
- Eco storage and reuse guidance
- Safety reminders and cleanup
- STEM career posters and reflection
Evidence & downloads
Policy
Policy & EU Alignment
Based on EU STEM Education Plan (COM 2025 89).
EUEU STEM Education Plan
COM 2025 89 (PDF).
Region note: also matches National Curriculum (Lower KS2) and NGSS 3–4 strands.