Lesson Plan (Grades K-2): Combining Literacy and STEM with Storybook Activities

Lesson Title: Storybook STEM Adventures

Grade Level: K-2

Subject Area: Science/Engineering

Overview: In this lesson, students will engage with classic storybooks and solve STEM challenges inspired by the stories. For example, after reading "The Three Little Pigs," students will design and build their own houses to withstand the "Big Bad Wolf" (a hairdryer). This lesson integrates literacy with hands-on STEM activities to enhance creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives:

   1. Students will listen to and comprehend a classic storybook.

   2. Students will apply basic engineering concepts to design and build structures.

   3. Students will use problem-solving skills to test and improve their designs.

   4. Students will collaborate and communicate effectively in groups.

Standards Alignment:

• Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):
  • K-2-ETS1-1: Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
  • K-2-ETS1-2: Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
• Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts:
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.1: With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a text.
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.1: Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about kindergarten topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups.