Learning to read is like solving a puzzle - so what better way to teach letters and word families than by playing with puzzles?
I teach kindergarten at a Title I school in Oklahoma where 90% of students qualify for free/reduced lunches.
Most of my students have never been in a school setting before - some come to kindergarten without knowing how to count or say their ABC's. However, just because they start out behind doesn't mean they have to stay behind, these students soak up information like sponges as long as its presented in an interesting manner.
My Project
Even in kindergarten we have a curriculum that must be taught, but I need to make learning fun too! Currently we have some wooden puzzles which my students enjoy - until they get knocked over and we have to try to put several together at the same time! If we had a puzzle rack we could solve that problem and my students could easily choose the puzzle they want instead of having to worry about upsetting the pile! My students also struggle with learning the alphabet and I think alphabet puzzles will help them learn their letters and sounds easier - every bit of reinforcement helps! I also want to encourage my high achievers - those who have mastered letter sounds and are on their way to putting those sounds together to form words. The word puzzles I have chosen will help to challenge them to keep learning. In addition, putting puzzles together helps to develop the abilities to reason, sequence, and develop logical thought and problem solving skills which are necessary math skills.
Donating to this project would really be a gift with lasting impact over many years.
The puzzles I have chosen are long lasting wood puzzles which will hold up for several years of kindergarten classes. You will help reach those struggling with letter recognition as well as provide challenge for those already on their way to becoming readers! These puzzles will provide learning opportunities for all my students, as well as being entertaining - which guarantees they will be used daily!
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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. Knopf and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.