Girls are discouraged into entering STEM field because of existing stereotypes. This also causes

them to underperform in competitive math and science environment due to lack of positive

encouragement, role models, and support.

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This is a crucial problem as girls possess the same amount of innate potential as boys, but are

not reaching the same heights. There are fewer females in the STEM field, as they lack role models

and a STEM oriented community to thrive on.

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Did you know that 81% of girls are interested in pursuing STEM (Science, Technology,

Engineering, and Math) but only 13% say that it’s their first choice, with about half of the girls

believing that STEM isn’t a typical career for girls? (she++ Collected Statistics on Women in

Technology)

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By 2018, nearly 80% of jobs will require a background in STEM, yet only 26% females are

currently in STEM fields. STEM is crucial for the advancement of this country and we must

ensure that all girls get the opportunity to fully participate and progress in the fields of science,

technology, engineering, and math.

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I am focusing this project on fifth to sixth graders for one big reason. “At this age, girls often

decide if the enjoy or despise science.” If I can instill a passion and interest for STEM at a young,

but crucial age, it could set them up for success in entering a STEM field further down the road.

In this project I would like to reach out to elementary-aged girls and introduce them to basic

science and engineering concepts though classroom lessons and hands-on projects that will

increase their interest towards STEM as well as help develop spatial logic and analytical skills

crucial for STEM fields. The projects they will do will range from hands-on science

experimentations to STEM related workshops to real world problem-solving activities, so that

the girls are exposed to different areas in STEM.

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I hope that through these activities I can engage girls and instill a passion for STEM at a young

age that will set them on the path of a STEM career later in their life.