Additional information
by Kara Ball (Author)
Give students concrete opportunities to practice STEAM skills! This teacher resource includes easy-to-use classroom strategies and activities for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. This teacher book provides 50 strategies to support STEAM instruction and build 21st-century skills such as collaboration, handling failure, problem-solving, communication, and creativity. With ten strategies per essential STEAM skill, this book provides educators with tools to build skills. These activities utilize accessible everyday materials, which makes them perfect for any classroom setting. The book also includes student activity pages, instruction sheets, and ideas for variation at every grade level. From building knowledge of STEAM concepts to strengthening lifelong learning skills, this book offers PreK-12 teachers the support they need to help students thrive.
Author Biography
Kara Ball is the author of50 Strategies for Teaching STEAM Skills, an academic officer for Teacher Created Materials, and a professor of education. She specializes in inquiry-based and inclusive learning across STEAM, AI, and special education, with a focus on supporting students who learn and think differently.
In 2025, Kara was honored as one of five recipients of the Bezos Courage & Civility Award, recognizing leaders who take on meaningful challenges with courage, empathy, and civility. The award supports her continued efforts to expand access to inclusive, inquiry-driven STEM learning for all children.
Previously, Kara served as a special educator and district STEM leader. In 2018, she was named the DoDEA State Teacher of the Year and a finalist for National Teacher of the Year. She has also been recognized as a Distinguished Alumni of Towson University and received the Shirley J. Lowrie "Thank You for Teaching" Award. Kara is a National Board-Certified Teacher and holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education from Towson University, a Master of Science in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, and a Master of Philosophy. Follow her at @ontheballeducator and karaball.com.
