My students need measuring tools like scales, rulers, meter sticks, calipers, overflow cans, graduated cylinders, and models of density to perfect their science skills.
My students all qualify for special education services, they are dedicated and hardworking but it often takes them longer to master skills. They need more practice but I do not have science equipment in my classroom for students to use during my Study Skills class.
I am a special education teacher for students in grades nine through twelve; they reflect the diversity of our entire student body with respect to socioeconomics, ethnicity and ability.
Our school is a Title One school with more than 50% of our students on fee waivers. Our students, faculty, and families embrace our diversity and work hard to develop supportive learning communities where all students can attain personal success. Since our school practices a model of inclusion, I am able to be in the regular science classes with my students and the science teacher to enhance their learning experience. Then during Study Skills, we spend time practicing and reviewing what we have learned.
My Project
Students will practice measuring mass using the balances, volume using water displacement with overflow cans and graduated cylinders, length using calipers, rulers, and meter sticks. I plan to pre-teach some skills like the use of calipers to measure very small distances so that my students have the opportunity to be the educational leaders in their regular science classes.
The density models will be so helpful because they represent concrete examples of an abstract concept that students consistently struggle with. Having all these resources in my classroom means I can individualize instruction for specific students, who then can practice during their study skills class, or before and after school. For many of my students repeated practice equals success, and with success comes a strong sense of accomplishment and an opportunity to build self-esteem.
All students regardless of ability can attain individual success, for some students that means just a little more practice with a little more support.
I feel privileged to work with such a dedicated group of students and nothing would bring me greater pleasure than providing them with the requested materials to enhance their learning experience.
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