STEM Challenge- Build an Earth Shape

While children will know that the Earth is round, it will still be fun for them to explore the Earth shaped in different ways. Children learn about the attributes of shapes as they build them. Whether it is on their own or in a group, they will see how many sides (edges) and corners (vertices) they have.

Space Theme or Earth Day Activity

While this activity is shared as one of five space-themed activities and worksheets for Space Week, it could be an Earth Day activity. However, you may want to use different building materials for the two different events.

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Building Supplies for a Space Theme

Star Shaped Objects
Round Planet Shaped Objects
Craft Sticks with Space Stickers
Space Themed Pencils

Earth Day Building Supplies

Small Sticks
Small Pebbles
Buttons from Old Clothes
Plastic Bottle Caps

Getting the Build an Earth Shape Mats

First, you will need to download the set.

STEM Challenge – Build an Earth Shape Mats Download

Second, if you don’t have Acrobat Reader you will need to download it. The algorithm page is an Acrobat Reader PDF file.

Third, you must go to your download file and open the page. You may be asked if you want the file to open right after downloading it. You won’t have to hunt for it in your download file if you are.

Exploring the Build an Earth Shape Mats

Once you have downloaded the set, you must decide how you want to share them with your children. At the same time, you could just add them to your maker’s space or put them out for your children to explore. I would follow the steps listed below.

First, identifying the shape of the mat would be helpful.

Second, talking about the parts of the shape would be wonderful. Whether you call where the sides connect vertices or corners, it would be great to count how many each shape has. Some of you may call the lines connecting the corners side or edges. Whatever you call them, it would be great to go over how many each has.

Third, finding objects that are the shape you are focusing on will help children visualize the shape they are going to build.

Fourth, the building would finally happen. They will need to think about whether the shape they build needs to fit on a mat or can be bigger than the mat.