I teach co-taught English classes and learning centers at the high school level. My students in both classes have learning profiles that benefit from highly-engaging, hands-on activities. They are not always able to demonstrate their understanding of content in traditional ways, and we strive to give them a variety of methods to show what they know.
My students have creative juices flowing, but nothing with which to capture them on paper.
Rather than having them try to color code their world map or design a presentation poster with ball point pen, I would like them to be able to show what they know in color. My students also use color to complete doodle notes, where they are encouraged to color in the concepts and draw examples on their own.
Simple boxes of markers and colored pencils would enable my students to be creative while expressing what they are learning in class.
School can be stressful, and learning shouldn't be perceived as just a chore. Empowering my students to feel happy and connected to their learning is profoundly rewarding. Thank you for considering my project!
L. Piehl
My Project
Simple tools like magic markers, colored pencils, and bright paper can make a surprising difference in the learning experience of a teenager. Students with learning disabilities often experience frustration and failure, particularly in areas that are especially ill-suited to their learning styles. Students who struggle with reading comprehension and writing are apt to avoid these tasks and just "do" school to the best of their ability. As a result, they struggle through without any lasting learning. I believe it is essential to use other modalities other than language to help students learn and to show what they know. For some, creativity is key, and for many, hands-on-activities can make all the difference.
By donating to this project, you will be providing art materials that will help struggling students use their strengths, have enduring learning experiences, and be engaged with academic tasks they find challenging.
It is exciting to be able to provide these learning opportunities, and difficult to obtain the materials. My classes will be thrilled to have good materials to work with. Thank you so much for considering this project.
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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. Piehl and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.