STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education is becoming increasingly important in our society, as it prepares young students for a world that is becoming more and more technologically advanced. One way to engage students in STEM education is through hands-on projects, like the Peep Puff Mobile project that third graders completed in STEM class today.

The Peep Puff Mobile project involved designing and building a small car powered by wind.  The wind was made by the students using 3 puffs of air. The car was made from everyday materials such as straws, paper, life savers, cardboard, tape, and a Peep marshmallow candy as the driver. The students were tasked with designing their car using the engineering design process: they had to identify a problem, brainstorm possible solutions, create a prototype, test their design, and make improvements.

Throughout the project, the third graders learned about basic engineering concepts such as aerodynamics and friction. In addition, they practiced their math skills by measuring and cutting materials to the correct length.

The students came up with their own unique design for their Peep Puff Mobile. The students were encouraged to experiment with different designs and make changes based on their observations.

After the cars were built, the students had a chance to test them out in a race. The mobiles were lined up on a track, and each student took turns giving 3 puffs of air to power their car. The students cheered and shouted as they watched their Peep Puff Mobiles speed down the track.

Overall, the Peep Puff Mobile project was a fun and engaging way to use the Engineering Design Process.  By designing and building their own cars, the students learned important engineering concepts and developed critical thinking skills.  Projects like this one help to inspire a love of learning and an interest in STEM fields, which will benefit students as they move on to higher levels of education and eventually enter the workforce.