Elementary & Middle School

  • A Team Challenge

    The STEM Design Challenge is for small teams of 4th - 8th graders who are challenged to brainstorm, develop, and implement a solution to an engineering problem using various building materials.

    Equipping Teachers

    At the heart of the program is a teacher training workshop to prepare teacher coaches for the year's competition.

    Workforce Partners as Judges

    On competition day, scientists, engineers, technicians and specialists from Chester County workforce partners serve as judges, bridging the connection between K-12 and the STEM workforce.

    2021 Challenge

    Over the past 6 months, we have all spent a lot of time in our home. You may have discovered that some products or appliances in your home could be safer or more environmentally friendly. Thermo Fisher Scientific is working to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer so they are asking you to rethink a product that you would find in your home, or create one that you should find in your home. This product could be (but not limited to) a new or different way to power your home, a new or updated appliance, or a new gadget for home entertainment. Be creative!
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K’Nex Kits

  • No new K'nex kits will be distributed this year. K'nex and recyclable materials may be used in the creation of the design. Lego's may not be used.

Judging Criteria

    • Creativity
    • Teamwork
    • Challenge Success
    • Design
    • Presentation

Awards

    • Awards will be given to top three teams in grades 4-5 and grades 6-8
    • Additional prizes may be awarded (best blueprint, most creative, etc.)
    • First-place winners in each division will advance to the virtual state competition that will be held in May. Date to be announced.

Resources