ETP Newsletter: July 2025

Summer STEM Adventures: Engaging K-8 Students with ETP's Creative Projects and Resources

As the school year winds down, many educators are looking for ways to keep the momentum of STEM learning alive during the summer months. Summer camps and after-school programs provide an excellent opportunity to engage K-8 students in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and creativity. With the right resources and projects, teachers can inspire young minds to explore the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

In this blog post, we will explore how teachers can extend STEM learning into summer programs using ETP’s STEM Classroom Modules—Robotics, 3D Modeling, and AI in Education. We will also highlight three engaging summer projects that can be implemented in these settings: an AI art challenge, a drone obstacle course, and a 3D-printed puzzle.

Students collaborating on a robotics project

The Importance of Summer STEM Learning

Summer camp offered at one of our schools

Summer is often seen as a break from formal education, but it can also be a time for exploration and discovery. By integrating STEM activities into summer camps or after-school programs, teachers can help students maintain their academic skills while fostering a love for learning.

Hands-on activities not only make learning fun but also encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. These skills are essential for success in the 21st century, and summer programs provide a unique environment where students can experiment and innovate without the pressures of traditional classroom settings.

ETP’s STEM Classroom Modules

Student working on a 3D modeling project

ETP offers a range of STEM Classroom Modules designed to make STEM learning accessible and engaging for K-8 students. These modules focus on key areas such as Robotics, 3D Modeling, and AI in Education, providing teachers with the tools they need to create dynamic learning experiences.

1. Robotics: Students can learn the basics of programming and engineering by building and coding their own robots. This hands-on experience not only teaches technical skills but also encourages teamwork and creativity.

   
   

2. 3D Modeling: With 3D modeling, students can bring their ideas to life by designing and printing their own creations. This module fosters spatial awareness and design thinking, essential skills in today’s digital world.

   
   

3. AI in Education: Introducing students to artificial intelligence can spark their interest in technology and its applications. Through interactive projects, students can explore how AI works and its impact on various fields.

   
   

Project 1: AI Art Challenge

One exciting project that can be implemented in summer programs is the AI Art Challenge. In this activity, students will use AI tools to create unique pieces of art.

Teachers can guide students through the process of using AI software to generate images based on their ideas or themes. This project not only introduces students to the concept of artificial intelligence but also allows them to express their creativity in a new way.

At the end of the challenge, students can showcase their artwork in a virtual gallery, allowing them to share their creations with family and friends. This project encourages collaboration, creativity, and an understanding of how technology can be used in artistic expression.

With the use of AI and imagination, a majestic rainbow mountain range was generated

Project 2: Drone Obstacle Course

Another engaging summer project is the Drone Obstacle Course. This activity combines engineering, programming, and physical activity, making it a perfect fit for summer camps.

Students can work in teams to design and build an obstacle course for drones. They will learn about aerodynamics, coding, and teamwork as they program their drones to navigate through the course.

This project not only teaches valuable STEM skills but also promotes physical activity and outdoor learning. Students can compete to see whose drone can complete the course in the shortest time, adding an element of friendly competition to the learning experience.

Drone navigating through an obstacle course

Project 3: 3D-Printed Puzzle

3D puzzle printed using a Prusa MK3 MMU2

The final project we’ll explore is the creation of a 3D-printed puzzle. This project allows students to combine creativity with engineering as they design their own puzzles using 3D modeling software.

Teachers can guide students through the process of brainstorming puzzle themes, designing the pieces, and then printing them using a 3D printer. This project not only teaches students about design and technology but also encourages problem-solving as they figure out how to make their puzzles fit together.

Once completed, students can exchange puzzles with their peers, promoting collaboration and sharing of ideas. This project is a fantastic way to integrate art and technology while reinforcing STEM concepts.

Conclusion

Summer is a wonderful time to inspire K-8 students to explore the world of STEM through hands-on activities. By extending STEM learning into summer camps and after-school programs, teachers can help students maintain their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

ETP’s STEM Classroom Modules—Robotics, 3D Modeling, and AI in Education—provide the perfect tools for educators to create engaging and impactful summer projects. Whether it’s an AI art challenge, a drone obstacle course, or a 3D-printed puzzle, these activities can spark creativity and foster essential skills in young learners.

As you plan your summer programs, consider incorporating these projects to keep the momentum of STEM learning alive. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your teaching skills at the ETP Summer Academy 2025, where you can gain valuable insights and resources for integrating STEM into your classroom.

Let’s make this summer a time of exploration, creativity, and inspiration for our students!