On Friday, May 17th, Fisher Science Education hosted the Pennsylvania State 2019 STEM Design Challenge Finals at Harrisburg University.
A group from AquaPhoenix joined Fisher and volunteered as judges for the event. Awards were given to the top three teams in grades 4-5 and grades 6-8. A total of 49 teams competed in the state finals.
Each team of four students was tasked with creating a machine that will move three objects at least six inches across a table. In addition, the teams had to keep a journal of their journey from start to finish, draw up blueprints, inventory pieces, and give a 2-minute presentation to the judges. Middle school students also present their inventory and cost.
Judging Criteria:
- Creativity
- Teamwork
- Challenge Success
- Design
- Presentation
“Fisher Science Education’s support of this program is a great example of their commitment to promote STEM education in today’s schools.” says Brandon Taylor, Director of Education.
The competition certainly was fierce. Of the 1,199 teams who competed, only 49 advanced to the state finals. It is estimated that 1,678,600 pieces of K’Nex were used for this challenge.
Congratulations to all of the students who competed!
