They've grown up in the age of technology, but maybe because the tech is so advanced, my students lack skills in using basic tools like calculators to solve problems. While other tools (i.e.computers/phones) exist, they're not allowed during testing situations, and aren't practical during labs.
My students have a lot of heart.
They aspire to attending college or post secondary training to go on to careers in all different pathways. However, most of them face financial challenges, as we are a Title I school. Their parents work multiple jobs, and the students also tend to find jobs in order to help support their families. They work in dusty, hot classrooms that recently have been greatly affected by the state's rail construction project due to noise and traffic.
My Project
Throughout the school year, students will be able to apply chemistry lessons and practice solving problems without needing to borrow a calculator from another student, or trying to do the problems without the calculator. They will be able to focus on the science content, instead of on the need for a calculator. When taking a test or doing a lab, students will be able to complete the test or lab with greater accuracy, in less time, and with less frustration from lacking a calculator. At the end of the year, they will have gained skills for logically entering information into a calculator and using the various functions to solve problems in chemistry and possibly other sciences such as physics.
Students will be able to cover more chemistry concepts since they are able to work through the problems in each section with more speed when they don't have to share calculators or work problems out longhand on paper.
Students will be able to more confidently solve problems, not only in chemistry, but going forward as they go on to higher education and into the workforce.
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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. Horiuchi and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.