My students need an iPod Touch with a protective shield, an iHome speaker system, a splitter and headphones to listen to music that has been proven to enhance learning.
Music in schools is more than just "nice," it's essential for brain development. Books of research exist proving music enhances our cognitive, emotional, stress response and memory systems, to name only a few.(Jensen, 2001) I want all that and more for my students.
My 23 bright and motivated 3rd graders come from very supportive homes who want the best for their children.
Part of helping them achieve their best is teaching them using the 20 Brain-Compatible Instructional Strategies, one of which is music. (Tate, 2009) When students are listening to and singing songs, they are more engaged in their learning and better retain information.
My Project
With the iPod Touch and iHome speaker system I will be able to set playlists for various needs such as: music on specific topics we are studying, music for quiet working times and music for movement breaks. With the remote control that is included in the iHome, I will be able to quickly access various playlists, thereby allowing me more time to work directly with my students. My students will also have the privilege of listening and singing along as they perform better and more quickly master instructional concepts. As an extra incentive, without disturbing other students, 2 students will be able to listen to music or other educational audio through the iPod with the use of a splitter and 2 headphones. To protect the iPod and allow it to be used for many years, a protective shield will also be used.
Research is endless to prove the positive impact of incorporating music in learning.
Even this one statistic speaks volumes, "Students who were tested with background music had better reading comprehension than the control group." (Jensen, 2001) Not only will my students receive the pleasure of listening to music, but their brains will be growing along the way. Thank you for giving the gift of music to all "my kids" this year and for many years to come.
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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. Scranton and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.