I teach chemistry & environmental science at a title I urban high school. Our school is in program improvement year 5 (red zone.) My students range from 10 to 12th grade. Our district is 27 million dollars in the hole. I haven't received even $1 from my school or district for science materials for the past 3 years. I rely on parent donations and grants to provide hands-on science to my students.
In order to engage students in learning, I am beginning a green energy academy next year at my school. Meanwhile, I am under the gun to find donors and funding for the academy. Recently I went to a weekend (free) workshop on teaching climate change in the classroom. One particular lab we were shown during the workshop centered around greenhouse gases and their affects on earth's temperature. While the lab used recycled/cheap materials such as tennis ball containers, soil and plants, one piece of equipment was required...digital thermometers.
In both of my science classes I teach about greenhouse gases. In chemistry, we learn about the types and effects of gases; while in environmental science class, we learn about the effects of greenhouse gases on air quality and ecosystems. The experiment is an ideal lab to use with both classes. The lab calls for 4 tennis ball containers with soil on the bottom. Thermometers are placed in the hole of the lid. A light bulb is used to simulate radiant energy and the four tennis ball containers with four different environmental conditions and thermometers are placed around the light bulb. Students measure temperature change for 10 minutes. I really like how this lab relates chemistry to something tangible like greenhouse gases. Most students can't make the connections of chemistry to environmental change.
The bottom line is that this is a great lab that can reach 150 students every year. Your support with the digital thermometers will make this hands-on learning experience a reality. With the thermometers I can also research additional opportunities to use them to promote engaging experiences in science for my students
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Ostrom and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.