Building Young Scientists: Hands-On STEM for First Grade
Help me give my students STEM kits, geometric blocks, life cycle manipulatives, terrariums, and specimens support three first-grade classrooms with hands-on science instruction that builds curiosity, critical thinking, and strong foundational science understanding creating lifelong learners of STEM.
$974 goal
This project expired on September 6, 2025.
This project expired on September 6, 2025.
My Project
I love how curious, eager, and full of wonder our first graders are. They ask thoughtful questions, explore with open minds, and genuinely get excited about discovering how the world works. Their enthusiasm inspires me to create learning experiences that match their energy and potential.
Each resource requested directly supports key TEKS objectives and helps transform abstract science concepts into concrete, memorable experiences.
For example, STEM kits help students explore force and motion (TEKS 1.6D) by building simple machines and testing how objects move. Geometric solid blocks support spatial reasoning and physical properties (TEKS 1.5A) as students classify and compare 3D shapes used in real-world structures. Animal life cycle kits allow students to observe metamorphosis in real time (TEKS 1.10C), making it easier to grasp how living organisms grow and change.
Terrariums bring life science to the classroom by helping students explore plant needs and environments (TEKS 1.9A), while plant and animal specimens allow them to compare external characteristics of organisms (TEKS 1.10A), reinforcing classification and observation skills. These tangible tools allow students to connect directly with the science standards in meaningful ways, laying a strong foundation for lifelong scientific thinking.
Lakeshore Easy-View Early Science Kits (Complete Set) – STEM Supplies, STEM Toys, and Science Specimens
• Lakeshore Learning Materials
$279.00
1
$279.00
Geometric Shapes - 8 in. - Set of 10
• Nasco
$59.46
3
$178.38
Lakeshore Create-A-Chain Reaction STEM Kit - Pre K-Gr. 2 - Master Set
• Lakeshore Learning Materials
$119.99
1
$119.99
Dan&Darci Light-Up Terrarium Kit for Kids - STEM Science Kits - Gifts for Kid - Educational DIY Toys for Boys & Girls - Crafts Projects Ideas for Ages 6 7 8-12 Year Old Age
• Amazon Business
$19.99
3
$59.97
Snap Circuits STEM Kit
• Carolina Biological Supply Company
$55.76
1
$55.76
Insect Lore's Life Cycle Figurines 24 Pc Set | Butterfly, Ladybug, Frog, Honey Bee, Ant and Praying Mantis | 4 Stages Per Insect, 24 Figurines Total
• Amazon Business
$26.31
1
$26.31
Lakeshore Solar System Science Viewer - Includes Viewer with Disks, Photos, and Booklet for Hands-On Interactive Science Kits - STEM Supplies for Kids, STEM Kits for Elementary
• Lakeshore Learning Materials
$19.99
1
$19.99
Learning Resources STEM Explorers Bridge Builders Set (LER9461)
• Quill.com
$18.89
1
$18.89
Materials cost
$758.29
Vendor shipping charges
$28.20
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$11.37
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$827.86
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$146.09
Total project goal
$973.95
Our team works hard to negotiate the best pricing and selections available.
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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. Nichols and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.