Gustavo the Shy Ghost Activity

Looking for a fun, engaging STEM activity that incorporates literacy and creativity?

The Gustavo the Shy Ghost Camouflage STEM Challenge is a perfect way to inspire your students while reinforcing key concepts in science, engineering, and design. Based on the story Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago, this challenge brings to life the themes of courage, individuality, and problem-solving in a hands-on learning experience.

Gustavo the Shy Ghost Camouflage STEM Activity

In the story, Gustavo is a shy ghost who struggles to be noticed but eventually finds the courage to stand out. In this challenge, students will create two versions of Gustavo: one that blends into the background (camouflage) and one that stands out boldly. This activity not only taps into their artistic abilities but also introduces them to basic principles of camouflage and visibility, key ideas in both biology and design.

Simplifying Your Planning Process

This lesson is available on Teachers Pay Teachers. However, the best way to access this lesson is through the STEM Teachers Club Membership.

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Suggested Materials

• Ghost template (available in the resource)

• Scissors

• Color sticks or crayons (avoid markers as students will color both sides of the ghost)

• Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago

Gustavo the SHY Ghost STEM Challenge Overview

1. Read and Discuss: If possible, begin by reading Gustavo the Shy Ghost with your class. Talk about how Gustavo feels in different parts of the story and the concept of being brave by being yourself.

2. Create Gustavo: Students will create two versions of Gustavo—one where he is camouflaged and blends into his surroundings, and another where he stands out and is easily seen. This encourages them to think about color, texture, and patterns that help with blending or standing out.

3. Engineering Design Process: The activity follows the steps of the engineering design process: ask, imagine, plan, create, and improve. It also emphasizes iterative learning, where students reflect on and improve their designs based on peer feedback.

4. Reflection and Writing: After the design challenge, students can write about a time when they were brave, just like Gustavo. This brings an SEL (Social Emotional Learning) element to the challenge, helping students think deeply about their emotions and personal growth.

Teacher Tips for Success:

• Preparation: Organize materials ahead of time to ensure a smooth challenge. Consider having a Makerspace or designated area with extra craft supplies, as the activity may inspire students to go beyond the basic materials.

• Encourage Redesign: STEM challenges are about iteration, so be sure to give students time to refine their designs. They’ll learn just as much from what doesn’t work as they will from their successes.

• Focus on Process: Remind students that success in STEM isn’t just about the final product; it’s about learning, creativity, and teamwork. Celebrate their effort and ideas, even if their camouflaged ghosts don’t blend perfectly.

While this resource is available on Teachers Pay Teachers, the Carly and Adam STEM Teachers Club Membership offers the best value for educators. With this membership, teachers gain unlimited access to Carly and Adam's extensive library of STEM resources, including ready-to-use lesson plans, activities, and challenges including the Gustavo the Shy Ghost STEM Activity.

This activity provides a meaningful blend of STEM, literacy, and creativity. By integrating a beloved story with hands-on design, students are able to connect emotionally with the challenge, enhancing their learning experience. The simple materials required make it accessible for all classrooms, while the focus on the engineering design process helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Incorporating literacy with STEM challenges like this one can foster a growth mindset in your students. Through Gustavo’s story, they’ll learn that sometimes being brave means stepping out of your comfort zone—and that’s where the magic happens!

*This resource can also be purchased on Teachers Pay Teachers, but the STEM Teachers Club Membership is the Best Deal.

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