Looking for a really fun STEM challenge that you can do at home? This mystery bag STEM design challenge is a blast!

• One bag (you can use gift bags, lunch bags, grocery bags, or even large baggies.)
• Scissors
• Tape (scotch tape or masking tape)
• Various kinds of recyclables (cardboard tubes, cardboard, newspaper, aluminum foil)
• A variety of other materials (paper plates, plastic cups, string, yarn, pipe cleaners)
• Mystery Bag Challenge Cards (print and cut these if you can)

Step Two: Fill Your Bag (Tip: it’s more challenging if a sibling or parent fills your bag)

Place about 8-12 items into the bag. You’ll want to be sure the items are varied. Each bag should contain at least one larger item that can serve as a base for the design, and then an assortment of smaller items.

Step Three: Print out the free mystery bag challenge cards. Cut them apart.

Step Four: Draw a challenge card. You could put the cards in a container to draw from or place face down on a table.

Step Five: Complete the challenge on the card using only the materials in your bag.

Bonus: Earn a  badge. If you complete FIVE mystery bag design challenges, you can earn the Mystery Design Challenge Badge. Go for it!!

Here is video I made at my old school where I challenged my students to create an innovative dog toy. Just ignore anytime I say, “Hey Bobcats”