My students need insect specimens, books and discovery centers about insects, and materials to build their own insects to experience hands-on activities to inspire their curious and inquisitive minds.
As a teacher in a low-income/high poverty school district, my students are faced with several challenges both in and out of the classroom. Despite the many challenges they face, I am looking to keep things simple and provide my students with creative and meaningful learning experiences.
My students are creative, clever and very spontaneous.
They like to move, they love to read and love lots of positive attention. Many of them are being raised in single parent households and receive a free lunch based on their socioeconomic status. These things may prevent them from getting ahead early in life and may not provide them with the life experiences many of us see as "typical". From the minute they walk in the door of my classroom, I focus on their potential and growth while they are with me. I may not be able to control their home lives; however, I can certainly control their experience during the school day. By doing this in a creative and positive way, I am hopeful to inspire even our earliest learners to continue on a path of academic excellence.
My Project
2nd graders are curious about the world around them. Our Insects and Plants unit includes the study of the structure and function of living things, growth and development of plants and animals, and interactions of organisms with their environment. Extending this learning, by including hands-on experiences and an opportunity to safely explore insect specimens from every angle, would strengthen their understanding.
By pairing STEM activities with the exploration of entomology, my students have to opportunity to explore and showcase their learning through the building of insects and creating their own insect.
The requested insect books will allow my students to research deeper on specific bugs to add to their learning. The acrylic specimens will allow them to study insects up close and not worry about hurting a live specimen. These will be integral to extending their learning and understanding of insect anatomy. The discovery centers will allow them to use their new knowledge and pair it with activities that are at their level. This hands-on building of insects allows them to demonstrate what they are learning and teach others through their creations. This allows them to reach the top level of Bloom's Taxonomy, which demonstrates the highest level of thinking.
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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. Magner and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
