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Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)

Updated September 28, 2026
Professional portrait of Christine Wood

Christine Wood

SDSU Extension 4-H Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Field Specialist

Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programing combines the experiential learning, hands-on education and inquiry based science to support youth in developing a variety of skills including critical thinking, team work and communication. 

Activities to Grab ‘n’ Grow

A young man sitting at a laptop discussing a project with a 4-H leader.

STEM on a Dime

Resources for quality science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activities that are inexpensive.

Science of Agriculture

Two yellow chicks standing the grass

Chicks in the Classroom

Materials for teaching chicken embryology to Kindergarten – 4th grade.

Herd of mixed cattle grazing a vast, open rangeland.

Adopt-A-Cow

The “Adopt-A-Cow” program engages elementary age youth in learning about animal agriculture through hands-on activities and by connecting youth virtually with real South Dakota animals.

Vast, rolling rangeland with spring plant growth.

Investigating Rangeland Systems and Practices

Curriculum to teach students about the facets of rangelands.

Think, Make, Create (TMC) Carts

Four red Think, Make, Make, Create carts

Through a partnership with the South Dakota Afterschool Network, the TMC mobile makerspaces are available to 4-H programs to create engaging STEM Opportunities.

The Think, Make, Create (TMC) Carts are designed to ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and bring hands-on STEM learning directly to South Dakota youth. These carts are packed with engaging, age-appropriate curriculum and materials tailored to school-age youth. Each cart is themed around a unique area of STEM—Engineering, Electronics, or Construction—allowing students to explore real-world skills through playful experimentation, teamwork, and problem-solving.

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