"Oh! Now I get it!" These are among my favorite words to hear in my classroom. I have a class full of radiant students who are eager to learn and are thrilled when they master a new skill.
Every one of my students is unique.
My students come from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. There is a wide range of skill levels in my class. Some of my students have special needs academically. Some have special needs physically. Some are gifted in reading. Some are gifted in art. Some excel with science. Others excel in math, sports, dance, writing, gymnastics....the list of their different strengths and interests goes on and on. Each student has certain areas of struggle and certain areas of strength.
With all these differences, the one thing that they all have in common is a love of learning!
My Project
Hands-on is the way to go! I am looking forward to doing some hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) activities with my students!
The materials I am requesting will enable my students to use critical thinking skills while solving several different STEM challenges.
My class this year LOVES science and I am hoping to continue to feed their thirst for knowledge in this area. My students will use the materials provided to solve such challenges as follow:
-How strong of a structure can you build using spaghetti noodles and styrofoam?
-Using binder clips, popsicle sticks, and clothespins, what is the tallest structure you can build?
-Using cups, popsicle sticks, and blocks, what is the tallest structure you can make with just one block as a base? Can you build a chain reaction?
-How can you build a maze for a HEXBUG using straws and wiki sticks?
These are just a few examples of the engineering challenges my students will participate in. Participating in these types of challenges allow students to engage in creative and critical thinking as well as build confidence as they solve problems.
The requested materials will also allow my students to further their knowledge in the area of life science as they observe caterpillars changing into butterflies. They will be able to make predictions, observations, and record data throughout the experience, all while learning about life cycles.
My students are always excited when they find out we are doing a science lesson of any type. These materials and experiences will help foster that love of science and love of learning!
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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 Mrs. Leman and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.