Counting on Katherine Johnson Hidden Figures STEM Activity

Scientist Spotlight: Katherine Johnson!
Engage Students with a Hidden Figures STEM Challenge!

Katherine Johnson STEM Challenge is a fun and unique way to engage your students during Black History Month and Women's History Month. Teach students that anyone can be a scientist regardless of race or gender. Works as a great companion to the read aloud Counting on Katherine by Helaine Becker.

Students begin the activity by reading about Katherine Johnson and answering questions. We included our own reading passage, and you can also use Counting on Katherine by Helaine Becker.

After learning about Katherine Johnson, students design, build, and test their own space capsule. Students plan, design, and execute their own ideas. After they have completed their activity, there is time for reflection on what worked and what didn't.

A writing activity is included for students to write about what they learned about Katherine Johnson during the project. Excellent for informational writing. (See Preview)

Aligns with NGSS(Next Gen Science Standards) and Common Core.

Material List:

• aluminum foil
• tape
• string
• scissors
• plastic shopping bags and/or coffee filters
• timer
• bucket of water (optional)
• Counting on Katherine by Helaine Becker (Recommended)

Includes:

• Teacher Instructions
• Student STEM Journal
• Student Instructions
• Student Planning Pages
• Student Reflection Sheet
• Reading Passage and Questions
• Writing Activity
• NGSS and Common Core Standards
  

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