My students need hands-on materials like science class kits to explore, experiment, and investigate in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) classroom.
"The current demand for STEM jobs in America greatly outweighs the supply of capable workers". It is up to educators like me to teach students to investigate and problem solve, rather than sitting still in a class listening to a teacher lecture or reading information from a book to master a test.
I teach middle school gifted students in a low income area of a college town.
People in our town don't have high expectations for our school and don't always give our school the credit it deserves. This fall I will begin teaching a STEM class to any students with a 3.0 grade point average. I want my students to be more like investigators, learning through experimenting, while I facilitate and lead them in the right direction. I teach students who are eager to learn and have expectations of attending college, while many of their peers do not have the motivation or desire to do more than get by.
My Project
I have requested a variety of hands-on science class kits to spark student interest! The students will need to explore the topic further through research to learn the necessary vocabulary, and use trial and error to experiment with supplies to further their academic knowledge. Through the use of inquiry, students will use the materials, apply prior knowledge, and move forward in the lesson to begin to build a base for STEM content.
An example of this, is learning about energy consumption and alternative energy sources. I have ordered solar and wind powered materials, as well as circuit boards. By learning about circuitry through experimentation the students will have a better understanding of how energy is used, then by creating different sources of energy, the students will be able to explore how energy is created, stored, and used as well as how it effects our environment. Research shows that when students learn by doing, it is easier to retain information.
My students will be better prepared for dealing with real life situations and problems, because they will know where to begin in an uncertain investigation.
They will be able to problem solve as they continue through higher education, and throughout their careers and lives. Students enjoy learning more when they are free to explore and investigate. Your donations will make a direct impact on a student's attitude towards learning and attitude is everything! Thanks!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Edwards and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.