Session at a Glance

Topic Description Estimated Time (In Minutes)
Arrival Activity Students take turns drawing shapes on each other’s back with their finger. Students try to guess what shape was drawn, and explain how they knew. 5
Welcome, Announcements, and Agenda Give a general overview of the session and any relevant announcements, and provide time for sharing. Answer any questions about the Final Assignment. 10
Discussion: Gender Equity and STEM Students reflect on their own experiences with gender socialization and engage in a discussion about gender equity and STEM. 20
Math Focus: Shape Students explore the big ideas about shape. They watch and discuss an Erikson video showing a child composing shapes using pattern blocks. 30
Science/Engineering Focus: Building Structures Students discuss the rationale for creating a classroom environment that supports children’s building. They participate in the Structures Group Activity by rotating through each group’s station to explore different types of materials and challenges. 75


Instructor Guide PowerPoints Reader

Student Learning Goals

  • Understand how gender bias impacts children’s attitudes towards science and math.
  • Identify shape concepts that are most appropriate for focus in early childhood.
  • Apply science, engineering, and math skills through building structures.
Student instructor builds a tower with several small paper cups.