Looking for first week of school science activities that are hands-on, NGSS-aligned, and actually fun? The Apple Tree Catcher STEM Challenge is an engaging, collaborative build that’s perfect for your beginning of the year science activities, especially during apple season or fall themes. In this high-interest, low-prep activity, students work in teams to design and build a device to catch falling apples before they hit the ground. It’s a creative way to introduce (or reinforce) the engine