Maker-STEAM Checkout Inventory 

• Large Box of Straws and Connectors (1) 

• Strawbee Die #1 (To cut connectors using Ellison Die Machine) (1)

• Strawbee Die #2 (To cut connectors using Ellison Die Machine) (1) 

Age Recommendation 

• PK-12th Grade 

Resources 

• Strawbees Classroom 

  • *Free Sign up Required. Contains lots of good resources and lessons. 

• Strawbees Main Page 

Tips 

🧠 Getting Started

• Demonstrate basic joins — Show how to push straws firmly into connectors and remove them safely.
  
  

🎯 Teaching Tips

• Begin with guided challenges — Try simple tasks like “build a triangle” or “make a bridge” to introduce structural basics.

• Encourage iterative design — Ask students to test, identify weaknesses, and rebuild stronger structures.

• Promote vocabulary use — Introduce terms like “beam,” “joint,” “tension,” and “compression” as students build.
  
  

🤝 Classroom Management

• Use work mats or trays — Define building zones to contain materials and reduce clutter.

• Assign team roles — Rotate roles like Engineer, Material Manager, and Quality Checker for smooth collaboration.
  
  

🌟 Extension Ideas

• Integrate physics concepts — Build functions like levers, wheels, or gears using straw components.

• Combine with other media — Reinforce learning by adding paper, tape, pipe cleaners, or cardboard to build hybrid models.

Activities and Lessons 

• Strawbees Classroom 

  • *Free Sign up Required. Contains lots of good resources and lessons.