STEM Challenge Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

STEM Challenge Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this STEM challenge vocabulary puzzle set for my 3rd and 4th graders during our STEM unit. The kids loved building and creating but had no idea what words like challenge, materials, or design meant when we started our STEM activities. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like challenge, design, build, test, improve, materials, teamwork, problem, solution, and prototype. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the STEM vocabulary finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess or indoor recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether building a prototype is the same as building the final thing. The crossword I use for partners or as a review. I added a couple simple gear, blueprint, and lightbulb drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 3rd through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers draw a design for a STEM challenge on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.