If you’re passionate about STEM subjects, a good way to explore them is by starting a passion project while you’re still in middle school. A passion project is a self-driven project that lets you dive deep into a topic you love. Why start in middle school? Because the risks are low, rewards are high, and the learning is invaluable. It also makes a pretty cool story to tell when you’re older too! 

What are passion projects for middle school students?

Passion projects are independent projects that allow you to explore topics you are genuinely curious about. Unlike school assignments, these projects are self-initiated and can be as creative or structured as you like. In STEM fields, passion projects can range from building simple machines to programming apps that solve real-world problems.

Why should I do a passion project in middle school?

Middle school is the perfect time to start a passion project because it allows you to experiment without the high stakes of high school. If you start early, you can refine your skills, gain hands-on experience, and even prepare for future competitions, scholarships, or college applications. Plus, passion projects can help you discover what STEM fields truly excite you before choosing high school courses or career paths.

30 passion project ideas in STEM

1. DIY weather station

Build a small weather station that records temperature, humidity, and rainfall using sensors connected to a microcontroller like an Arduino or Raspberry Pi. You can track weather patterns in your area, compare your data with official weather reports, and even create a mini-website to display your findings. This project helps you understand meteorology, coding, and data analysis while creating something functional and educational.

• Materials Required: Arduino kit, temperature/humidity sensors, rain gauge, coding software

• Suitable for: Beginners with an interest in electronics and data science

2. Eco-friendly water filter

Design a small-scale water filtration system using natural materials such as sand, gravel, activated charcoal, and coffee filters. Test different filter combinations by pouring dirty water through them and measuring how clear the filtered water becomes. Take it a step further by researching how large-scale water filtration works and experimenting with different materials to improve efficiency.

• Materials Required: Plastic bottles, sand, gravel, activated charcoal, coffee filters, measuring tools

• Suitable for: Beginners interested in environmental science and engineering

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3. Code an AI chatbot for homework help

Create an AI-powered chatbot that helps students with math or science homework. You can use platforms like Google Dialogflow or Python libraries to program responses to common homework questions. Train the chatbot to provide step-by-step explanations instead of just answers, making it a useful tool for middle schoolers struggling with complex topics.

• Materials Required: Computer, internet access, chatbot software (like Google Dialogflow or Python)

• Suitable for: Students with basic coding knowledge and an interest in AI

4. Homemade solar oven

Construct a working solar oven using a cardboard box lined with aluminum foil to reflect sunlight and generate heat. Use plastic wrap to trap the heat inside and black construction paper to absorb more warmth. Test your oven by cooking simple foods like s’mores or melting chocolate, and measure the internal temperature to analyze efficiency.

• Materials Required: Cardboard box, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, black construction paper, thermometer

• Suitable for: Beginners interested in renewable energy and physics

5. Performa plant growth and music experiment

Investigate the effect of different types of music on plant growth by setting up an experiment with identical plants exposed to various genres like classical, rock, and no music. Record their growth rate over several weeks and analyze whether certain types of sound waves influence plant development. This experiment combines biology, physics, and data collection.

• Materials Required: Plants, speakers, music sources, ruler, notebook for tracking growth

• Suitable for: Beginners interested in botany and environmental science

6. Make a DIY robotic hand

Build a functional robotic hand using cardboard, straws, and string to mimic the movement of human fingers. Learn about biomechanics by studying how tendons control finger movements and incorporate motors if you want to automate the fingers. This project introduces you to robotics, mechanics, and prosthetic design.

• Materials Required: Cardboard, straws, string, glue, optional servos for automation

• Suitable for: Beginners interested in robotics and engineering

7. 3D-print an assistive device

Use 3D modeling software to design and print an assistive tool, such as a pencil grip for people with limited hand mobility or a door opener for wheelchair users. Research common challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and brainstorm practical solutions that can be created using 3D printing.

• Materials Required: Access to a 3D printer, filament, design software (like Tinkercad)

• Suitable for: Students with basic 3D modeling and design skills

8. Perform microplastic pollution analysis

Collect water samples from different locations (tap water, rivers, lakes) and examine them under a microscope to identify microplastic contamination. Research how plastic pollution affects marine life and create a report or presentation to raise awareness about the issue. You can even experiment with filters to reduce microplastic levels in water.

• Materials Required: Microscope, water sampling kit, filter paper, data collection sheets

• Suitable for: Students interested in environmental science and chemistry

9. Make a smart home energy monitor

Develop a system using sensors and a microcontroller to monitor energy consumption in your home. Display real-time data on an app or website, and provide suggestions on how to save energy. Experiment with different appliances and compare how much electricity they use over time.

• Materials Required: Raspberry Pi/Arduino, energy sensors, coding software

• Suitable for: Intermediate students interested in engineering and sustainability

10. Design a virtual reality math game

Design a simple VR-based math game using coding platforms like Unity or Scratch. The game could involve solving equations to progress through levels or using geometry to build structures in a virtual environment. This project helps make learning math more engaging and interactive.

• Materials Required: Computer, VR-compatible software (Unity, Scratch, or CoSpaces)

• Suitable for: Students with basic coding skills interested in game development

11. Make a DIY light-wave communication system

Create a simple communication system that uses light waves to transmit information. By assembling a transmitter and receiver with basic electronic components, you can send audio signals using light. This project introduces concepts of wireless communication and electromagnetism.

• Materials Required: LEDs, solar cells, basic electronic components, audio source​

• Suitable for: Beginners interested in electronics and physics

12. Reinforcement learning with virtual robotics

Explore the basics of reinforcement learning by training virtual robots to perform tasks in a simulated environment. Using accessible software, you can teach a robot to navigate mazes or complete simple challenges, providing insight into machine learning principles.

• Materials Required: Computer, internet access, virtual robotics software​

• Suitable for: Students with basic programming knowledge and an interest in artificial intelligence​

13. Flood mitigation design

Develop innovative solutions to address flooding in your community. This could involve designing an app that monitors real-time flood levels or creating physical barriers to protect homes. Such a project combines elements of environmental science, engineering, and community service.

• Materials Required: Computer for app development, materials for physical prototypes​

• Suitable for: Students interested in environmental engineering and community planning​

14. Make a science communication platform

Create a blog, podcast, or video series that explains complex scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible manner. By translating intricate topics into everyday language, you can enhance public understanding of science and improve your own mastery of the subject as well as your communication skills.

• Materials Required: Computer, microphone or camera, internet access​

• Suitable for: Students interested in science communication and media

15. Environmental data analysis

Collect and analyze environmental data, such as air quality indices or water pollution levels, from your local area. By identifying patterns and potential concerns, you can contribute to community awareness and advocate for environmental protection measures.

• Materials Required: Data collection tools (sensors or online databases), computer for analysis​

• Suitable for: Students interested in environmental science and data analysis​

16. DIY smart cane for the visually impaired

Create a simple smart cane that can detect obstacles and alert users through vibrations or sound. Use ultrasonic sensors to measure the distance of objects and program a microcontroller (like Arduino) to provide real-time feedback. You can also experiment with adding GPS or voice assistance for extra functionality. This project explores electronics, programming, and accessibility technology.

• Materials Required: Arduino, ultrasonic sensors, buzzer or vibration motor, cane (or similar base structure), batteries

• Suitable for: Students with basic electronics and coding experience

17. Study renewable energy models

Construct working models of renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines or solar panels, to understand their functionality and efficiency. This hands-on project provides insight into sustainable energy solutions and their potential applications.

• Materials Required: Building materials (cardboard, motors, solar cells), basic tools​

• Suitable for: Beginners interested in renewable energy and engineering​

18. Biodegradable plastics experiment

Investigate the creation of biodegradable plastics using natural materials like cornstarch or gelatin. By experimenting with different formulations, you can assess their durability and decomposition rates, contributing to solutions for plastic pollution.

• Materials Required: Cornstarch, gelatin, glycerin, molds, measuring tools​

• Suitable for: Students interested in chemistry and environmental science

19. Astronomy observation journal

Maintain a journal documenting your observations of celestial events, such as meteor showers, planetary movements, or lunar phases. This project enhances understanding of astronomy and develops skills in systematic observation and recording.

• Materials Required: Telescope or binoculars, notebook, star charts​

• Suitable for: Beginners interested in astronomy​

20. Explore mathematical art patterns

Explore the intersection of mathematics and art by creating designs based on mathematical concepts like fractals, tessellations, or the Fibonacci sequence. This project demonstrates the aesthetic applications of mathematical principles.

• Materials Required: Drawing tools or graphic design software​

• Suitable for: Students interested in mathematics and art​

21. Program a home automation system

Develop a basic home automation system that controls lighting, temperature, or security features using microcontrollers and sensors. This project introduces concepts of the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart home technology.

• Materials Required: Microcontroller (like Arduino), sensors, actuators, coding software​

• Suitable for: Students with basic programming and electronics knowledge​

22. Virtual reality educational tour

Create a virtual reality experience that guides users through educational content, such as historical sites or biological processes. This immersive project combines creativity with technology to enhance learning experiences.

• Materials Required: Computer, VR development software, VR headset​

• Suitable for: Students interested in virtual reality and education​

23. Genetics and heredity study

Conduct a study on genetic traits within your family or community, such as eye color, blood types, or hereditary conditions. By analyzing patterns, you can gain insights into the principles of genetics and heredity.

• Materials Required: Survey tools, access to genetic information (with consent)​

• Suitable for: Students interested in biology and genetics

24. DIY hydroelectric generator

Design a small hydroelectric generator using a water wheel, magnets, and coils to generate electricity from flowing water. Test it by placing it under a stream of running water (like a sink or a small waterfall) and measure how much power it produces. Research ways to make it more efficient and learn how real hydroelectric dams work.

• Materials Required: Small water wheel, magnets, copper wire, LED light bulb, multimeter

• Suitable for: Students with an interest in physics and renewable energy

25. Smart plant watering system

Create an automated plant watering system using moisture sensors and a microcontroller. Program it to detect when the soil is dry and trigger a small pump to water the plant. This project teaches about automation, smart agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

• Materials Required: Arduino/Raspberry Pi, moisture sensor, water pump, tubing, coding software

• Suitable for: Students with basic coding and electronics knowledge

26. AI-powered animal recognition app

Train an AI model to recognize different animals using machine learning tools. Use a dataset of animal images and teach the AI to classify species based on their features. Expand the project by building an app that helps users identify wildlife in their area.

• Materials Required: Computer, internet access, machine learning software (like TensorFlow or Teachable Machine)

• Suitable for: Students with basic programming knowledge interested in AI and zoology

27. Magnetic levitation train model

Build a small-scale maglev (magnetic levitation) train using magnets and coils. Learn about electromagnetic forces and how they can be used to make transportation faster and more efficient. Test different magnet arrangements to see which design works best.

• Materials Required: Strong magnets, lightweight train model, coils, batteries

• Suitable for: Students interested in physics and transportation engineering

28. Self-cleaning food container coating

Develop a natural, hydrophobic (water-repelling) coating for food containers to reduce the need for excessive washing and minimize food waste. Research natural substances like beeswax, starch-based coatings, or plant oils that can create a protective barrier against moisture and bacteria. Test different formulations by applying them to various materials and measuring their effectiveness in repelling water and stains.

• Materials Required: Beeswax, cornstarch, plant-based oils, containers for testing, measuring tools

• Suitable for: Students interested in chemistry, material science, and sustainability

29. Design an autonomous obstacle-avoiding car

Build a small robotic car that can navigate around obstacles using ultrasonic sensors. Program it to detect and avoid objects in its path, simulating self-driving technology. Challenge yourself by adding features like line-following or remote control.

• Materials Required: Arduino/Raspberry Pi, ultrasonic sensors, wheels, motors, coding software

• Suitable for: Students with basic robotics and programming experience

30. DIY water desalination system

Construct a simple desalination system that removes salt from seawater using solar energy. Use evaporation and condensation methods to collect freshwater and test the system’s efficiency. This project explores renewable energy and clean water solutions.

• Materials Required: Clear plastic container, black tray, saltwater, sunlight, glass lid

• Suitable for: Students interested in environmental engineering and sustainability

One more option—The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about. Our mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke, and LSE.

The program was founded by a Harvard & Oxford PhD who met as undergraduates at Harvard. The program is rigorous and fully virtual. We offer need-based financial aid for students who qualify. You can find the application in the brochure! 

To learn more, you can reach out to our Head of Partnerships, Maya, at maya.novak-herzog@lumiere.education or go to our website.

Multiple rolling deadlines for JEP cohorts across the year, you can apply using this application link! If you'd like to take a look at the cohorts + deadlines, you can refer to this page!

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a Ph.D. student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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