Over 250 K-5 students receive Spanish from me twice weekly, with 90% of instruction delivered in Spanish. Younger learners (Grades K-2) are focused on understanding the language through listening, singing and playing games. Beginning in 3rd grade, students begin to read, retell stories, and dig deeper into the culture of Spanish-speaking people and countries.
Language learning at the Elementary level provides students with an excellent foundation for advanced Middle and High School language learning.
Many of my former students are now thriving in honors-level classes in High School. These same students report seeing how their language proficiency will lead them to new heights in college and beyond.
Spanish learners in my school are forging a path towards Spanish proficiency. They are bright, enthusiastic and motivated students who are fearless about language learning. As students progress through the program, they develop aural and oral proficiency and a love for learning the language through story-telling.
Our school is in a small, rural community. I created the Spanish program in 2010 and am honored to be a teacher to these 21st century learners. In addition to Spanish classes, about 20 students in Grades 3-5 are members of the after-school Spanish Club.
My Project
iPads have become an integral tool to the Spanish program. However, with only nine iPads, it is difficult to maintain engagement for all students. Class size in our school varies from 15 to 24 students. With 13 iPads, students will have better access, improving the pace and scope of their learning.
I have discovered how the iPads facilitate personalized learning, student choice and engaged, goal-oriented learning.
For example, when students are absent, they can easily catch up in the next class without excessive teacher intervention. iPads also permit both lower skilled and higher skilled students to complete modified assignments, which improves their self-confidence and allows them to progress at their own pace. Four additional iPads, will widen the path towards personalized learning.
Student choice is a driver of motivation. When students can pick a task that suits their learning style, they can show what they know. Even though the task is associated with the same goal, there are multiple ways to demonstrate their learning. For example, if a student is shy about filming themselves, they can use an avatar instead. Some students prefer to work alone, while others would rather work together. With four additional iPads, all students can have a voice and choice.
iPads allow students to evidence their learning using goal-oriented tasks. For example, one student goal is "I can be understood when I read or speak aloud." Using an app such as SeeSaw, students can record themselves, listen to their recording, decide if it is their best work and re-record if they wish. SeeSaw allows me to provide individualized feedback to students, helping them improve and reflect on their learning.
iPads are essential tools for language learners. Four more iPads will personalize learning and provide many more opportunities for students to advance their Spanish proficiency.
New Apple iPad Mini 4 (128GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray)
• Amazon Business
$369.99
2
$739.98
Apple iPad mini 4 128GB Wi-Fi 7.9-Inch Tablet - Gold
• Amazon Business
$359.99
2
$719.98
HDE iPad 2 3 4 Case for Kids - Shock Proof Bumper Heavy Duty Protective Cover Handle Stand for Apple iPad 2nd 3rd 4th Generation Tablet (Blue)
• Amazon Business
$16.99
4
$67.96
Materials cost
$1,527.92
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$22.92
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$1,580.84
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$278.97
Total project goal
$1,859.81
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$1,859.81
27 Donors
-$1,846.58
Donations toward project cost
-$1,580.84
Donations 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 Ms. Smithers and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
