Do you remember those SUPER exciting days in science? Those days where you thought this is the coolest thing ever? Well Van de Graaf generator day is just that! When there are charges pulsing through their bodies, they can feel the science come alive.
This excitable bunch of eighth graders LOVE to do anything that is wild, crazy and has a touch of danger.
Many students have had the experience of going to a museum and getting to try out a Van de Graaf. These urban central Wisconsin students love to explore new concepts. This project is exposing them a little further to the wonderful world of science. This project allows these engaged and excited students to work with electricity in a totally different way then they would ever imagine in a classroom setting.
My Project
We have the opportunity to spend a whole day working with the generator. During their class period they have over an hour, instead of minutes at a science museum trying different hypothesis out of "What would happen if...?"
This year I have an advanced class who truly questions and wants to explore on a deeper level. Using a Van de Graaf Generator is a fantastic way to engage the state of inquiry. I am excited to provide opportunities where science blends excitement and learning.
Days like this is why I became a science teacher. These are the days that kids have FUN. They are learning, laughing and playing. Most importantly they are founding a love of science.
Science is a subject that many students find "too hard".
If I can open the doors with cool experiences like a Van de Graaf Generator, I can foster a love of science that will be the building blocks to an even stronger science future. I hope to push my students paths of thought to truly question and interpret the movement of electricity through their bodies. The possibility for learning is only the start. If I can provide a catch, I can relate other learning back to this initial experience.
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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. Adams and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.