Architects and Engineers and Critical Thinkers, Oh My!
My students need problem solving building kits, blocks and books about engineering/STEM in order to enrich our STEM curriculum and allow engagement in STEM activities.
How does that work? Let me try!" In our class, students are regularly discovering new ideas and learning new concepts. Our children love to build and create in a hands-on fashion. They are always excited to try something new and problem-solve a solution to challenge presented.
For some, this is their first time in a full day school setting.
Many of my students come from homes where more than one language is spoken. In fact, this year's class boasts six different languages! They are all instructed in English every day and Spanish at least three times a week. Several students are differently abled. Some lack many educational materials at home. The parents depend upon the school to provide students with enriching educational experiences. All of the kids are excited about learning and are highly interested and motivated when we are learning new concepts. They are especially engrossed in their learning when we are engaged in a STEM unit of study. I am hoping to create more experiences related to construction, but need the materials to make this dream a reality for my students.
My Project
My students will use these materials to test the principles they learn during our building and design units. They will be able to learn the concepts by directly and actively engaging with these materials. These materials will allow students to experience learning hands-on, which is the way they learn best. In addition, being able to interact with the construction materials and problem solve to create sturdy structures that directly relate to our content areas. They will also be able to use the materials engage in dramatic play and gain yet another opportunity to practice their English and Spanish vocabulary. The materials will be used during our Extended Learning Time, content and Centers time.
These materials will allow children to engage in additional oral language and dramatic play centers in the classroom while simultaneously building their critical thinking skills and STEM skills necessary for successful learning that will benefit them this year and in the future.
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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. Kimberly Hermsmeier and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
