STEM Scale-Up Program

The Governor’s STEM Advisory Council's top priority is boosting student interest and achievement 

in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The Science Center of Iowa's Pint Size Science program provides a platform for young children, ages 3 to 5, to explore science in a highly-engaging, interactive, and safe manner. 

Pint Size Science introduces children to STEM topics through discovery learning. Using a hands-on approach that engages and inspires young minds to explore scientific phenomena, the program works to not only build science understanding but also respond to the ever-changing interests and abilities of children. 

Scale-Up: Pint Size Science 1: 

Pint Size Science introduces STEM topics by using concepts that emphasize the identification and basic understanding of earth, life, physical and space sciences. The topics are introduced in these four curriculum modules:

“Science Sprouts” serves as an introduction to the field of science

“Gizmos & Gadgets” helps children investigate how applying technology makes work and play easier for us

“Mini Meteorologists” focuses on the weather happening around us 

“Insect Investigators” develops skills in sorting and classifying as children observe and compare features of insects 

Additionally, each Pint Size Science session includes a literacy component, where every class reads a book that pulls together the most important ideas of the STEM topic being discussed. Fundamental mathematical skills are also reinforced through activities, including counting, numbering and recognizing geometrical shapes.

Scale-Up: Pint Size Science 2

Pint Size Science: 2 expands upon the first year of themes as it introduces children to additional STEM topics through discovery learning. Using a hands-on approach that engages and inspires young minds to explore scientific phenomena, the program works to not only build science understanding but also respond to the ever-changing interests and abilities of children. Pint Size Science: 2 provides essential tools and materials to extend learning resources and promote intellectual growth.

Pint Size Science: 2 introduces new STEM topics by using concepts that emphasize the identification and basic understanding of animal classification as well as robotics and coding. The topics introduced in these two curriculum modules:

“Classifying Creatures” teaches students to group and classify animals based on their similarities and differences;

And, “Bits and Bots” uses robots provide students a chance to learn beginning programming and coding.

Additionally, each Pint Size Science: 2 kit includes a literacy component that pulls together the most important ideas of the STEM topic being discussed. The literacy selections provide an opportunity to develop vocabulary and language; practice skills of comprehension and give children experience with different types of books and text. Fundamental components of mathematics are reinforced through activities; including numbers and operations, measurement, special sense, patterns and data-analysis.