Is a particular STEM topic consistently tricky for your students to understand? From gravity to the inside of a cell, math and science concepts can be complex (and often abstract), making them challenging for students to grasp from day one.
But, difficult STEM topics can be made more accessible for students by breaking down concepts into digestible and relatable pieces. Keep reading for practical teaching strategies to try today to introduce students to new ideas.
The challenge of teaching complex STEM concepts
Across all grade levels, there are STEM subjects that are more difficult for students to understand. When teaching STEM, these complicated concepts can be hard to explain and require more time and practice in the classroom to build student understanding.
Why are STEM topics often perceived as difficult?
The most challenging concepts are often hard for students to visualize due to scale, time, or both. Concepts might be incredibly small (like atoms, molecules, or cells), immensely vast (like galaxies), invisible (like forces or gasses), or require a significant amount of time to observe (such as weathering or life within ecosystems).
Common roadblocks in understanding STEM subjects
What are common challenges when introducing tough STEM subjects and abstract principles? You might be limited with classroom resources, including time, space, funds, or equipment. Other events, such as plate tectonics, disease spread, or a real-life food chain, might be impossible (or dangerous!) to witness during a 60-minute science block.
6 strategies for teaching tough STEM topics
Propel your STEM teaching forward with these six classroom ideas to help make the complex more bite-sized.
1. Break down concepts into manageable steps
Abstract ideas can feel overwhelming. Introduce new concepts gradually by breaking ideas into chunks and focusing on one main idea at a time. Slowly build on prior knowledge and link new ideas to what students already know.
2. Use real-world examples to illustrate abstract ideas
Similes and metaphors aren’t just for English class–infuse them with STEM learning! Use them to connect difficult concepts to everyday life. For example, demonstrate how an animal cell is like a city or a factory with multiple interconnected parts. You can also show how topics power real-world experiences, like the physics behind roller coasters or DNA evidence at a crime scene.
3. Lean on visual aids and models
Diagrams, 3D models, and STEM bulletin boards can bring abstract ideas to life. Visual organizers, like mind maps or flow charts, can help students see relationships between concepts and extend learning beyond the textbook.
4. Promote hands-on learning through experiments and simulations
Experiments allow students to observe concepts in action, making theoretical ideas tangible. Create opportunities where students can directly interact with new STEM concepts to propel inquiry-based thinking and experimentation. Conduct physical labs or use virtual simulations to give students space to test, observe, and experience concepts.
ExploreLearning Gizmos virtual STEM simulations and labs allow students to get hands-on with complex ideas to develop a conceptual understanding of topics. For example, the Frog Dissection Gizmo can help introduce students to concepts and lab equipment before an in-person dissection. Students can also use the Gizmo in place of an in-person dissection, using pre-made exploration sheets and vocabulary to make complex ideas more digestible as they progress through the Gizmo. Students can repeat trials as needed at their own pace without wasting classroom supplies.
5. Use stories and literacy connections
Connecting concepts to stories makes them more memorable and engaging. Name a water droplet and take an adventure as it travels through the water cycle. Turn cell respiration into an action-packed story. When introducing any complex STEM idea, consider how you can weave components together and present them as compelling stories.
6. Incorporate discussion and project-based learning
Giving students the chance to discuss concepts in small groups can often lead to peer-led explanations and deeper understanding. Encourage questions and risk-taking, and create a safe space where mistakes are welcome to promote self-assured learning. Use project-based learning to allow students to interact with the STEM material in multiple ways over an extended period of time.
How to foster critical thinking in STEM classes
Critical thinking skills allow students to engage with more challenging and abstract concepts.
Creating an inquiry-based learning environment
Work to create a classroom environment that fosters critical thinking skills. Build on students’ natural curiosity to promote inquiry-based learning. Give students ample opportunities to ask questions, analyze data, propose ideas, test solutions, and evaluate results. When students are comfortable thinking critically and forming connections between ideas, they will have a more natural time unpacking more difficult STEM topics.
Conclusion: Teaching STEM for lifelong learning
Students will continue to encounter complex or abstract STEM concepts, but strategic teaching strategies and ample opportunities for inquiry-based practice can help solidify understanding.
Are you ready to see how Gizmos STEM solutions enhance learning and break down challenging math and science topics into engaging experiences? Start a free classroom trial today!
