Help me give my students seats to view and materials for desktop aquatic ecosystems.
FULLY FUNDED! Mrs. Benson's classroom raised $640
This project is fully funded
My Project
My 5th grade Gifted and Talented students are naturally curious, hands-on learners who thrive when they can explore science through real-world investigations. To deepen their understanding of ecosystems and the interactions between living and nonliving things, students will design and build desktop aquatic ecosystems, small-scale, self-sustaining models that reflect the complexity of natural environments.
Aligned to the 5th grade NGSS standard 5-LS2-1, this project invites students to develop models that show the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and their environment.
Students will observe relationships, collect data, and adjust their systems as they explore interdependence, energy flow, and environmental impact.
A root viewer will let students observe how plant roots grow and function in soil. An ant farm will allow us to study animal behavior, colony systems, and survival strategies. Floor seating chairs will create a collaborative space for students to sit comfortably during observations, discussions, and reflections. These flexible seats will support group work and allow for student-led conversations in an inviting, nontraditional classroom layout.
My students are inquisitive, passionate, and excited to learn through doing. They love to ask questions, dig deeper, and share ideas. These materials will empower them to think like scientists, communicate like scholars, and take ownership of their learning in ways that will last far beyond this unit. Thank you for helping bring our classroom to life—literally!
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Kaplan Early Learning Explore and Discover 3 Section Root View Planter
• Kaplan Early Learning Company
$62.96
1
$62.96
GAMENOTE Clear Plastic Storage Bins with Lids,Stackable Containers for Classroom,Toy Storage Organizer, 5 Qt 12 Pack Small Tubs,Tote Box for Kids Playroom,Sorting(12×7.2×5.1 in)
• Amazon Business
$52.98
1
$52.98
Ant Farm Kit Giant
• Carolina Biological Supply Company
$41.72
1
$41.72
Delta Education Tubifex Worm Living Material Card, 1/2 Ounce
• School Specialty
$34.00
1
$34.00
Carib Sea Super Natural Moonlight Sand for Aquarium, 5-Pound (2 Pack)
• Amazon Business
$26.18
1
$26.18
Gambusia (Mosquito Fish) Living Pack of 12
• Carolina Biological Supply Company
$17.85
1
$17.85
Pond Snail Living Medium Pack of 12
• Carolina Biological Supply Company
$15.84
1
$15.84
Windows Screen and Screen Door Replacement, 48"x118" Durable Fiberglass Screen Mesh- Window Screen & Sliding Screen Door Repair for Patio and Windows, Tooltriz
• Amazon Business
$11.59
1
$11.59
Elodea (Egeria densa) Living Pack of 12
• Carolina Biological Supply Company
$11.02
1
$11.02
Materials cost
$414.12
Vendor shipping charges
$93.59
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$6.21
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$543.92
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$95.99
Total project goal
$639.91
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$639.91
6 Donors
-$317.90
Donations toward project cost
-$273.72
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
-$44.18
match offer
-$317.88
Match offer toward project cost
-$270.20
Match offer to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
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. Benson and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
