A Calculated Request for Improved Math Comprehension

Who We Are: A 5th grade class of 10 and 11 year olds 100% of us are African American 100% of us receive Free Lunch What We Need: 30 Scientific Calculators The Reason Why We Need These Tools: There are 4 reasons why we DESPERATELY need these calculators as soon as possible: 1) Now that they are in 5th grade, students are encountering more complex math problems. They need to be able to check their work when they complete math problems with exponents, fractions, decimals and percents. 2) We are at a disadvantage when competing with well-funded suburban schools when taking statewide math tests. Our school can only afford to provide simple 12 digit calculators even though the statewide tests allow for scientific calculators with advanced functions. If we want to bridge the achievement gap between inner city and suburban schools this is a simple step we can take to even the playing field. 3) My school cannot afford to purchase these items. 4) Students are motivated by being able to use "cool" technology. As simple and plain as it may seem to an adult, being handed a new and fancy calculator is an inspiring and exciting experience for a child. It will motivate them and get them hooked on the math concepts. As noted above, I teach 5th grade at a school in an impoverished community in Illinois. It is hard to convey the types of environments my students are growing up in. Oftentimes they come to school without basic tools such as pencils, notebooks, and paper. If they cannot come prepared with these simple tools, how can I expect them to bring a $20 calculator to school each day? In order to help me provide my students with the best learning experience possible, I am asking for 30 scientific calculators. This is a simple gift that can help dramatically improve their math comprehension and test scores, which can help them improve their quality of life over the long haul. Please consider donating to us today! We thank you in advance!