Use these STEM challenge cards to help your students have fun as they get to know each other and settle in for a new school year.

These activities are perfect for grades 1 – 3 and have been designed to keep your students moving. This teaching resource provides options for independent STEM work or group STEM work. 

These STEM activities use everyday materials that you can easily find in your classroom. Alternatively, ask students to donate some of the materials from home.

Back to School STEM Challenge #1 – Picture Perfect! 📷

This fun classroom STEM activity challenges students to design a picture frame to send home to their families. Why not take a picture on the first day of school to fit inside?

These picture frames will be a wonderful memento of the first day of school in your classroom.

Back to School STEM Challenge #2 – My Name Is…📣

Your students might need help remembering their new classmates’ names! And not to mention, you might need a little help too…

Why not help them out by creating a STEM name tag for the back of their chair? This fun activity also helps students create a little mailbox on the back of their seats.

Back to School STEM Challenge #3 – Pencil Cup Madness ✏️

This getting-to-know-you STEM activity requires students to create a pencil cup for their desk or a community pencil cup if they sit in groups.

The bonus challenge? They must be able to justify why they chose particular supplies to keep inside. 👀

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the color or black and white PDF version of this resource. 

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time: