This year I am blessed with a group of wonderful, hard-working, and dedicated 8th graders. I teach 90 students whose talents, needs, and learning preferences are vast. About 1/3 of my students are special needs or English Language Learners. About 30 of my students classify as "gifted and talented." One hundred percent of my students are eager to learn and achieve great things. In addition they ALL have rich cultural backgrounds! Our school is located in Brooklyn and our students are fortunate enough to experience a city of culture, art, passion, and knowledge.
My students taught me the meaning of the word "magic." My ultimate goal is to harness that magic and channel it into projects that inspire awe.
My kids make me proud every day. Please give them a chance to "WOW" you as well.
My Project
As a literature teacher to a group of energetic Generation Z teens, my ultimate goal has been to instill a passion for reading. Let me be perfectly transparent: it's not a simple task. I am in a brutal competition with "Fortnite," "Snapchat," "Instagram," and "YouTube." Creativity had to be consulted prior to undertaking this daunting task. I've tried everything from character playlists, to dress-up reenactments of worthy scenes, to colorful renditions of key events. Although my kids enjoy such activities, many are reluctant to pick up a book at home and JUST read.
Through careful observation of my students and their interests, I've come to an ENLIGHTENING realization!
Last December, my special education co-teacher and I decided to assign book reports to our students. At first we were quite disappointing with their choices. I certainly did not consider "Captain Underpants" and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" worthy reads. However, after some contemplation, I concluded that this realization was a BIG discovery. My kids love stories with a visual aspect. Now, if only there was a way to give them what they want, while amping up the level!!
Solution: Graphic Narratives. Our last unit for the year is Holocaust centered. Although there's a plethora of Holocaust fiction, I set my mind on Maus (a graphic rendition of the Holocaust). In spite of the cat/mouse characters, the book is surprisingly effective in depicting the seriousness and grief of this point in history. Knowing my students, I believe they will truly enjoy this read. It will keep them challenged and engaged, without compromising the FUN.
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. Kozarska and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
