STEM Game for Kids: The LEGO Challenge

STEM Game for Kids: The LEGO Challenge — Teacher's Guide

Turn a random LEGO pile into a structured STEM game that builds communication, teamwork, and problem-solving — in under 40 minutes.

Download the Teacher's Guide:
go.nativespeakers.co/lego-STEM-game

Objective & Learning Goals

Students work in teams to build a LEGO model using voice-only instructions. By limiting visual cues, learners rely on clear verbal communication, listening, and logical reasoning — mirroring real-world STEM collaboration.

Science & Engineering: following instructions, testing stability, iterative problem-solving.
Technology: interacting with AI via the Brickit app.
Math: counting studs, symmetry, proportions, spatial reasoning.
Language: structured oral communication and collaboration.

Team Roles & Setup

Captain Manages time and communication flow; intermediates between team and Navigator; keeps the team calm and focused.

Navigator Uses Brickit to scan the pile and view steps & parts map; gives verbal directions only.

Builder(s) Assemble without seeing the screen; follow voice instructions; handle pieces gently.

Observers Help select the model, watch communication, share feedback.

Timing & Game Flow (≈ 35–40 min)

2 min — Assign roles (Captain, Navigator, Builder).
2 min — Scan the pile in Brickit.
5 min — Choose the model and plan communication strategy.
15 min — Build using voice-only instructions.
10–12 min — Reflection & scoring.

Core Rules

Navigator describes, never shows or gestures.
Only the Captain relays team feedback to the Navigator.
Piece substitution is allowed if the structure remains logical and stable.
The round ends when the timer runs out; score immediately.

Scoring Criteria (1–5 points each, max 25)

Speed Finished within time limit.

Accuracy Model resembles the Brickit version.

Flexibility Creative handling of missing pieces.

Communication Clear, concise, coordinated.

Strategy Smart model choice and role distribution.

Use teacher/judge/peer scoring. If multiple judges, average per criterion. Tie-breakers: earlier finish or highest Communication score.

Extensions & Simplifications

Challenge Extensions

Vary model complexity by piece count.
Use math with stud counts (double/half).
Switch communication language (EN/ES/etc.).

Simplifications

Use basic rectangular/square bricks only.
Run with 2 players (Navigator + Builder).

Teacher Tips

Tidy piles (~400 pieces) yield better scans.
Ask Navigator to preview all steps before starting.
Treat app misreads as problem-solving opportunities.
Prioritize collaboration and clarity over perfect replicas.

Resources

Download: go.nativespeakers.co/lego-STEM-game
Suggested group size: 2–4 students per team
Recommended grades: 1–6
Duration: 30–40 minutes

FAQ

Do we need official LEGO Education kits?
No. A random pile of bricks works fine; the point is communication and strategy.

What if the app shows colors we don't have?
Brickit recognizes shapes, not colors — use any color that matches the shape.

How many teams can run in parallel?
As many as your classroom setup allows; consider a scoring panel or peer review.