Middle School Science classes are incorporating a new “Figure It Out” Friday. Last week’s challenge was a paddle boat. Kids worked to figure out how to make the boat with their only instructions being a Tik Tok and limited materials.

“Figure It Out Friday” is a popular educational activity used in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning to engage students in problem-solving and critical thinking. Here's a general overview of how it works:

1. Weekly Challenge: Every Friday, students are presented with a new problem or challenge related to STEM topics. This could involve anything from engineering a simple machine to solving a complex math problem or designing an experiment.

2. Collaborative Problem-Solving: Students often work in small groups to tackle the problem. This collaborative approach encourages teamwork, communication, and the exchange of ideas, which are crucial skills in STEM fields.

3. Hands-On Activities: Many “Figure It Out Friday” challenges involve hands-on activities, such as building prototypes, conducting experiments, or using technology tools. This experiential learning helps students apply theoretical concepts in a practical context.

4. Critical Thinking: The challenges are designed to stimulate critical thinking and creativity. Students must analyze the problem, brainstorm potential solutions, test their ideas, and evaluate their effectiveness.

5. Presentation and Reflection: At the end of the session, groups typically present their solutions or findings to the class. This presentation phase allows students to practice their communication skills and receive feedback from peers and instructors. Reflection is also an important part of the process, helping students understand what worked, what didn’t, and why.

6. Encouraging a Growth Mindset: The nature of “Figure It Out Friday” fosters a growth mindset by emphasizing that mistakes and challenges are a natural part of the learning process. Students are encouraged to view failures as opportunities for learning and improvement.

Overall, “Figure It Out Friday” is an engaging way to make STEM learning interactive and enjoyable, helping students develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of STEM concepts.