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Core Scientific Skills
The Bee’s Knees Challenge is a hands-on STEM program aligned with NGSS for Grades 3–6. Students investigate pollinators, explore ecosystems, and apply scientific practices through research, design, and creative communication.
Scientific Curiosity & Questioning
Asking Questions and Defining Problems (Science and Engineering Practices)
The challenge begins by sparking curiosity: students explore bees and their relationships with different plants. They ask testable scientific questions—such as why certain flowers attract more bees—which lays the groundwork for structured inquiry and prediction. This supports NGSS practices that emphasize student-driven questioning and planning investigations.
Hypothesis & Scientific Reasoning
Developing and Using Models | Constructing Explanations (Science and Engineering Practices)
Following their initial research, students form hypotheses about which plants or flower traits may attract bees. They use these ideas to guide their garden designs and predictions, building an understanding of plant-pollinator relationships—key concepts under LS1 (Structure and Function) and LS2 (Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics).
Inquiry Through Hands-On Design
Planning and Carrying Out Investigations | Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Students test their hypotheses by designing and building model gardens using real-world materials. As they observe, document, and reflect, they engage in core NGSS practices like experimentation, data collection, and analysis—mirroring the authentic processes of scientific investigation and engineering design (ETS1.A–C).
Environmental Awareness & Sustainability
Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems (LS2.A) | Human Impacts on Earth Systems (ESS3.C)
The challenge helps students connect their actions to ecosystem health, highlighting the vital role of bees and the importance of biodiversity. By designing pollinator-friendly gardens, students see how local solutions can support broader environmental goals—aligning with NGSS crosscutting concepts in Cause & Effect and Systems Thinking.
Do you have a question?
If you have any questions or need further information about the Challenge, feel free to reach out to the STEM Hub team. We’re here to help!
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