Integrating STEM-S and Design Thinking in Primary Science Education: A Lesson Design for Fourth Grade

In the context of global education shifting strongly towards competency development and integrated education, the STEM-S model (Science – Technology – Engineering – Mathematics – Society), combined with design thinking, is being viewed as a potential approach to foster scientific, technical, and creative skills, as well as social responsibility among students. This article presents the process of designing an integrated STEM-S lesson based on the design thinking model. Based on that, a specific lesson plan was developed from the content “Good thermal conductors, poor thermal conductors” in the 4th-grade Science curriculum, with the theme “Keeping Warm – Protecting Health.” The results show that the lesson model not only helps students gain a deeper understanding of scientific knowledge but also develops problem-solving skills related to real-life situations, collaboration abilities, and civic awareness. The lesson has a clear structure, is suitable for elementary school teaching conditions, and can be used as reference material in training and professional development for elementary school teachers in line with educational innovation.