Remember the first time you saw an electronic device in your classroom and the feeling you had when you realized how much it was capable of? What if this awesome feeling was followed with the realization that you wouldn't get a chance to try it out today because there was not enough to go around?
I teach third grade at a Pre-K to 6th grade suburban school with a diverse student population of over 850 students.
We do not receive the state funding that many schools receive, and as a result, most of our technology comes from school fundraisers.
We currently have 3 computer labs that serve our entire school that we must schedule to use with our class. It can be difficult at times to schedule around that many classes, not to mention the lost instructional time in getting to and from the labs across our large campus.
I have 26 students that are incredibly interested in researching topics that excite them. For example, when we noticed a particular activity of our class pet tarantula, they led the way in researching it to figure out what was happening! How wonderful it is to see this happen on a daily basis! We currently have 3 ipad minis, thanks to Donors Choose, that we take turns with. My goal is to have at least one ipad mini per cooperative team.
My Project
I incorporate technology as much as possible throughout my daily lessons. My students will be able to listen to stories online, read e-books, practice math facts and learn scientific content through educational apps. Students will be able to access the internet for short research projects, helping us meet the Common Core State Standards for using technology for research.
I encourage a love of reading and the Accelerated Reading program is a big part of this. Students take computer tests on books they read in order to meet point goals based on their reading levels. My class each year tries their very best to come out on top by increasing their reading levels. Ipads will help us continue to meet our goals in learning!
Computer science is also a valuable tool for students to begin working with at a young age. I try to expose my students as much as possible to various forms of technology and introduce all the ways they can use it. Having more ipads will allow smaller groups to interact.
Your donation to our class will improve our access to all the information that is available out there, for years to come!
Third grade is a pivotal age in creating an intrinsic desire to learn, and I'm privileged to be a part of it!
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. Willis and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
