Getting my students excited about reading is easy when they find a topic they want to learn more about. Getting enough books that are age-appropriate, plus a tank to allow them to see an actual reptile to study will spur them on to read more.
My students represent a range of cultures and socio-economic backgrounds.
They are eager to learn more about animals and attend a city school that fosters a warm learning environment. They come to school ready to learn, and are very inquisitive. I find that they learn best through hands-on activities and through activities that make the world around them more related to their individual interests.
My Project
Speedy, our painted turtle, was donated last year. With him as a live example, we will launch a comparison of sea animals, semi-aquatic life, and mammals, utilizing observations and reference books, as well as field trips to the zoo, farm, and aquarium. In order to adequately provide a "live-action" experience to our young scientists, they must have access to a tank which allows them to view Speedy as he swims, dives, eats, and problem-solves in his indoor environment, basking and interacting with them. They will learn the difference between fact and opinion, animal adaptations, and how to care for a living creature.
First-hand experience is the best teacher when it comes to motivating children to learn.
They watch, interpret, and ask questions based upon what they see. As they record their noticings and ask questions, they are laying the foundation skills for scientific inquiry, writing, reading, and mathematics.
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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. Rogosin and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
