"It is the supreme ART of the teacher to awaken JOY in creative expression and knowledge."--Albert Einstein.
The beginning of first grade is an exciting time for young children. I like to funnel their excitement into learning and keep them excited all year long.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
said it best, "The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and think critically. Intelligence plus character--that is the goal of true education." I am a first grade teacher in a rural area in Idaho. My students' economic situations are just as varied as are their family dynamics. We celebrate the diversity in our school and we love being known as the "Stars." Seventy percent of the students in our school qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Regardless of these factors, every single one of my students has a great desire to create, learn, explore, play, and to think critically.
My Project
Children come to school at such varying degrees of readiness. I quickly assess their knowledge of the ABC's, and then I create activities to take them from where they are and move them all forward. The alphabet materials in this project will be a great benefit for all children. There are ABC books for children who start school reading. The books will also help other children learn their alphabet letters and sounds. Children love technology! We would like some interactive games that teach the children their letters and sounds in an exciting and fast-paced setting. Young children learn best when activities are hands-on. The paper, ABC punches, crimpers, finger print stamp pads, and markers will be used to reinforce the letter names and sounds in a variety of creative and fun ways. They can make letter art projects like jellyfish for the letter "Jj" or penguins for the letter "Pp."
I know when children are engaged and have the materials to personalize the learning to fit their needs, they can learn so much faster.
I have been wanting to combine books and art supplies more to help my students become ready to read. Having art paper, stamps, punches, crimpers, books, and games that all focus on the alphabet will fulfill this goal. Albert Einstein also said, "Creativity is contagious. Pass it on!" Thank you, donors, for helping me pass this on to my wonderful, star students.
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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. Hunt and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.