My students are varied in their background and beliefs. The one thing they share is the wonder of nature and how things work. They have inquisitive minds and marvel at what has come before dreaming about what will come next. They have a habit of keeping me on my toes and knowing the latest research in science.
My students are keen on the environment and how all things interact and they ask the best questions.
They are learning this semester about using the Scientific Process/Method and doing experiments that require they write up a report. Many do not have computers at home and some do not have access to the internet.
We are studying weather/climate, ecology/energy, and the diversity of life. They are most anxious to see things in the microscope. They are getting very confident using the Scientific Method. Furthermore, they are participating more and more in playing Kahoot every Friday for points. Over the holidays they are making instruments. We studied wind and sound these last couple of weeks. Many of the students are in orchestra/band or taking guitar, so they are interested in how to make their instruments. It should be interesting to see what they invent.
My Project
Our middle school is a Title I school with many students who do not have the access to the technology that I believe is important to give them a leg up in the world. This will give them the opportunity to learn about technology and participate in research with the access to research.
I have selected several different computers so that the students can learn and use the different systems for scientific research.
The computers will give more of the students, who do not have access to computers and the internet at home and cannot stay for the library, more of an opportunity to explore the world around them. They need to be able to research their individual subjects. They are learning about respect for the planet and the environment. Furthermore, they have learned about energy, weather and they are learning about biodiversity. They are learning to translate all of this information into the real world. Many have stated interest in STEAM and I have encouraged all of them to utilize MOOCs this summer while they are off school.
These computers will make a difference in their learning as they learn to navigate academic and intellectual sites. Furthermore, they are learning about proper format for reports and articles. They are learning to differentiate between fact and fiction in article and will be able to supply themselves and their classmates with peer reviewed research for the sciences.
Many (most) of them do not have access to technology at home and have little or no transportation to get to a library--I want to allow them to get on the internet to learn how to research. They are very inquisitive and have great aspirations for the near and far future. We have Research Day every Wednesday.
More than three‑quarters 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
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. Bradley and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
