I teach math to freshman, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. My classes vary from year to year but regardless of my classes I am passionate about giving my students a different perspective about learning and liking math. For most of my students, math is their least favorite subject. Whether it is due to their previous math grades or their own belief that they just aren't good in math, my goal is to make math fun and hopefully meaningful to their lives.
My students usually experience "Aha" moments when I give them the opportunity to teach each other or when I turn learning into a game.
I see more students engage in group discussion, use reasoning, and help one another when I provide class time for them to do so.
It is important for students to have fun while they learn. Ultimately, it deepens their understanding and reduces the stress and negativity most students associate with learning math.
My Project
As a math educator, teacher-centered instruction can get boring for students and does not always evoke critical problem solving skills or allow students to express themselves. What better way to break away from the classic, “sit-n-listen” learning environment than with a classroom escape room using math standards the students are learning. The variety of locks I have requested will allow me to make an array of engaging puzzles and unique lessons that students will enjoy solving. The lock boxes will provide a space to hide clues and prizes.
I will be able to create different escape rooms that will not only teach important math concepts in a fun way but also valuable life skills that are highly applicable to education and life.
Students need to practice teamwork, time management, problem solving, focus under pressure, and respect. Escape rooms provide the motivation and give students a reason to try and understand to connect with the material.
I usually try and gamify at least one lesson per unit or chapter since I believe students learn best when they actively engage with a topic. My goal is to inspire my students to learn how to answer a question and be better equipped to tackle new problems moving forward using communication, teamwork, and their creativity to problem-solve.
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 Mrs. Ryder and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.