My first grade class is very different than when I was in school. I'm a big believer in allowing the students to take an active part in their own learning. My classroom is not a quiet, everyone in their seats facing forward type of room. Kids are talking, discussing and asking their own questions.
I teach one of six first grade classes in my school.
We are a very large rural school with over 500 students in grades pre-k through 2nd. We have a very active parental involvement, and the community supports us as much as they can.
My students are the hardest working group of six year olds I've ever seen. They have conquered more than even I thought possible. No matter what the task, they may groan at first, but then they're real quick to turn it around to figure out what kind of fun activity can we incorporate into this. They love to interact with each other and take charge of their own lessons.
They love to learn about new places around the world and are especially intrigued with the idea of city life. They find it hard to believe that everyone doesn't own a car or a four wheeler, that some people don't have backyards, or not everyone goes hunting.
My Project
I am requesting stability balls for my kids to sit on to replace chairs. We ask our kids to sit for the majority of the day. The students either sit and pay no attention to you or often drift off to sleep. By replacing their chairs with balls, it will keep their brains stimulated for better learning. When the kids sit on these balls, they will be encouraged to jiggle, bounce, or sway from side to side. It has been proven to lessen student interruptions and keep the brain engaged for a deeper, more meaningful learning. The kids will be more engaged in their learning tasks and less likely to drift off. The balls also will make a huge difference with ADHD students or any others that find sitting still difficult. It will also help promote good posture, strengthen abdominal muscles, and improve circulation, balance and coordination.
Having students sit on stability balls is not a new idea.
It's been done all over the U.S. But the impact it would have on a group of six year olds in Louisiana would be huge. Imagine coming to school each day excited to be there and know that you're not going to get into trouble if you need to move? This would actually provide opportunities for students to become excited about their learning. After all, what could be better than students actually wanting to come to school to learn?
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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. Sumrall and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.