“Teaching children about the natural world should be treated as one of the most important events in their lives.”(Thomas Berry) I am a strong proponent of place-based education. Getting my students outside, learning about the world that surrounds us, is one of the most important parts of my job.
Our school is located in Southeast Alaska, within the beautiful Tongass National Forest-- home to some of the most intact expanses of temperate rainforest remaining in the world.
We are a close-knit, culturally-diverse, community school with just over 300 students, grades K-5. I have the privilege of working with a remarkable group of young scientists. These 5th graders are inquisitive, enthusiastic, and excited to learn about the world around them. My students, however, may be the best folks to explain why this project is important: "This study is important to our classroom and our school. It lets us have a unique view of nature, which we cannot see in other ways. We are excited to be able to share our data with our school and community. Everyone should know about all of the amazing wildlife who live around our school. We are doing real research, like real scientists do."
My Project
This year, my 5th grade scientists have been working on a field study of the local fauna around our school. Sadly, during our last field survey, we discovered that one of our trail cameras had been taken... Someone had cut down the tree it had been secured to! We are looking for sponsors to help us purchase a new trail camera so that we can continue with our field study. We are also hoping to acquire three iPads, to enhance our data collection and inquiry-based research. Such technology engages students in the scientific processes of collecting and organizing observational data (and can also be used in other classroom activities). Student scientists will use the new trail camera and iPads to monitor wildlife activity on a regular basis. Data collected will be used to draw comparisons and conclusions about local wildlife and habitat types. Student teams of scientists will also be encouraged to develop their own science inquiry projects, using the trail cameras and iPad technology.
Donations to our project will help my students continue with our current field study.
Furthermore, with the addition of three iPads, our research potential will be greatly enhanced. It would be my hope that my students come away from this project with a better understanding of the processes and applications of scientific inquiry. Furthermore, I hope to inspire curiosity, encourage respect, and create a connection between my students and the natural world.
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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 Ms. Watts and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
