ANSWER KEY: Hot STEM Careers

Directions:
Using the STEM Occupations handout, complete the following activities per your teacher’s instructions. Remember, all answers should be in complete sentences. If you need more room to record your answers, use notebook paper or the back of this sheet.
STEM Occupations
1.	What does the acronym STEM stand for?
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
2.	How many charts are in this document? 
3
3.	How many tables are in this document? 
2
4.	What is the difference between a chart and a table in this document?
A chart is a graphical diagram of statistics. A table is a straight statistical graph without graphics.
5.	Record 3 observations from the data in Chart 1.
The Technology field employs the most people. The Mathematical Science field employs the least. There are 5,905,240 recorded science positions in May 2005.
6.	Record 3 observations from the data in Chart 2.
Of all STEM occupations, income for engineers is closest to the national average at $74,670 annually.  All STEM occupations make almost double the income of all other occupations. Even the lowest-paying STEM occupation makes more on average than other occupations.
7.	According to the data in this article, how much more do people in STEM careers make than the national average? 
70% more than national average
8.	How can you prepare (starting now) for a STEM career? 
By studying as much math and science as possible in high school.
9.	What is the national average pay for all jobs, according to Chart 2?  
$37,870
10.	How much more, in dollars, do engineers make than the average of all occupations?
$36,800
11.	What types of attributes are necessary for a successful STEM career?
Curiosity, the ability to think logically, and creative problem solving are highly valuable.

12.	List at least 10 jobs that are included in this article.  
Actuary, biochemist, biophysicist, agricultural engineer, electrical engineer, drafter, mapping technician, computer systems analyst, computer programmer, and computer research scientist.