A majority of my students come from homes where, even with both parents working 2 jobs, there is not enough money to meet the family's basic needs. A consequence of this is that the parents often do not have the time, energy, or expertise to support their children with academics.
My students are amazing children.
Given the difficult economic and emotional circumstances they deal with every day, they still come to school ready and willing to learn all they can. Most of them are considered minorities (black and Hispanic), deal with racism daily, and are part of a system that does not take into consideration their strong cultural heritage and unique learning abilities. They are so bright, but learn mathematics better when it is real - - when it is something that will benefit their families, and something they can use in their day to day lives. Traditional mathematics teaching does not take these remarkable characteristics into consideration, therefore these students are considered "at risk" of school failure.
My Project
The resources I am requesting will bring contextual problems to the children. They will solve real world problems by, for example, organizing a factory that creates items like T-shirts, jewelry, and popcorn that they can sell. They will determine rates, fractions, work on spreadsheets, and determine profits. The posters and read-alouds will provide specific, detailed stories that describe the problem. They will be able to read them to their families and take this knowledge with them as they go shopping with their parents. By using these materials, the children will discover new and realistic ways to do mental math.
These materials will make such a difference to the lives of these remarkable children!!
Not only will they see the great benefit to their daily lives, but their scores will improve on standardized tests, thus preparing them to take the advanced math courses in middle school and high school that are so necessary for entrance into college. We thank you in advance for your generosity.
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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. S. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.