7th grade science at my school is a rigorous introduction to the State Standards for the Life Sciences. Following STEM principles, we have developed an activity-based course in which students are guided through the topics while acquiring skills in experimentation, measuring, and lab techniques.
I teach 6 classes of 7th grade science for a total of about 215 students.
My students are quite a diverse group, representing a variety of socio-economic levels, academic ability levels, nationalities, and more. Over a third of my students fluently speak a language other than English, and there are 15 different languages represented within my classes. I teach many English Language Learners and special ed students who learn best with visual aids, as well as a class of GATE (Gifted and Talented) students who enjoy challenges.
I believe science class should be fun, relevant, and engaging. I want students to love science so much that they choose to study it in high school and college and pursue careers in science fields. Understanding experimental method and design will ensure them success if they decide to pursue related careers.
My Project
Despite the tough economic times in the schools, we would like to continue and improve our program. I am requesting supplies for several different labs which will be used for student investigation throughout the year. Students will become experts in experimental design as they evaluate the effectiveness of hand soap, explore plant growth, and examine termite behavior. Students will be thrilled to play god to a universe of fruit flies as they do classic experiments to understand genetics. Karyotyping and real world applications will be a challenging and fascinating lab. Students will be engaged in learning as they compete against classmates in games about DNA and RNA. Finally, I am requesting two DVDs to enhance student learning. The School House Rocks: Science DVD has songs that help students remember complicated science concepts. The DVD "From Egg to Tadpole" will help students understand frogs before they dissect them.
These supplies will allow students to be engaged in science class and make a connection with their studies that would not be possible if they were limited to textbooks.
A Chevron Fuel Your School Grant would help my students to do real science throughout the year. A solid understanding of experimental design and laboratory techniques is critical to creating the next generation of scientists.
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
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