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How can we effectively incorporate real-world STEM applications and hands-on experiences into our science classrooms to inspire students and enhance their understanding of STEM concepts?

I think one of the best ways to incorporate real-world STEM is to have students tell you the questions they have about the 'real world.' From there, you can create hands-on activities and experiences that address both the students' questions and standards that you would like to focus on. Once the students have completed the activity, you can have them reflect on what they have learned. You can also point out the STEM skills students used during the activity and have students reflect on them. This not only incorporates hands-on experiences but also allows students to connect to and construct their own knowledge.