Classroom Ideas
We have been hearing about the importance of integrating STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) into the classroom for the last several years. Giving time for students to explore their own questions and curiosities sparks creativity. It can feel overwhelming to find ways to implement meaningful STEAM lessons in a general education or content-specific class, which is why teachers have been conveniently using STEAM bins.
STEAM bins are organized boxes filled with open-ended manipulatives for students to create with. Students can choose what they want to create or teachers can give tasks, like “create the tallest structure” or “make hearts out of the items in your bin.”
Here are some student-favorite STEAM bin items to consider using in your classroom.
Just so you know, we may get a small share of the sales made through the affiliate links on this page.
1. Wooden pattern blocks
This set of wood blocks from Amazon comes with a deck of cards with images. Students try to create matching images to the card with the blocks.
2. Magnetic blocks
Magnetic blocks allow students to engineer 3D figures.
3. Building straws and connectors
Students can create huge structures by connecting these straw toys. Bonus: This set comes in a plastic pin ready-to-use.
4. Brain flakes
Brain flakes are great for older elementary students. Their unique shape allows for more complex building projects, such as this tree.
5. Plastic snowflake connectors
These larger plastic snowflake connectors are suited for students younger and older to create creatures, letters, or numbers.
6. Mini puzzle blocks
If you’re lucky, you may even stumble upon these mini puzzle blocks in the dollar spot at Target!
7. Magnetic building sticks
Older students love to build with these small magnets!
8. Gel pens
It seems simple, but students love to use special gel pens and markers to put their imagination to paper.
9. Logic books
Students love to work in pairs or small groups to beat a logic challenge.
10. Math challenges workbooks
STEAM time in the classroom is a perfect time for students to take on new challenges in subject areas they enjoy, like the ones in this math book.
As you start to collect new STEAM items over time, you don’t need to break the bank for your bins. Try these bins from the Dollar Tree to get started.
So, when do teachers use STEAM bins in the classroom?
1. STEAM bins can be used by early finishers.
2. Incorporate bins into centers during math (or any subject!)
3. Schedule team building blocks during the week to uses STEAM bins.
4. Use STEAM bins in a calm down corner.
5. Pull out your bins during indoor recess.
6. Implement a Soft Start time in the morning and incorporate STEAM bins.
7. Teach math facts or colors using STEAM items.
As you begin using STEAM bins, you will be amazed with how they inspire all types of learners in your classroom!
