"If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn." Ignacio Estrada's words ring so true for me as a special educator. I want my students to feel that as much as possible, I will strive to be the teacher to individualize and cater to their educational needs.
What I love about teaching preschool is that my students remind me of the importance of the need for instructional materials to be as highly interactive as possible.
When I see passive learners in a classroom, it is disheartening because our young learners crave to manipulate and interact with materials. I have a very enthusiastic and inquisitive group of students this year who bombard me with questions and "funny" comments on a daily basis. Sometimes, it's a little nerve-wracking because I often cannot predict the types of questions they will ask; which makes my request for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) materials so much more appropriate.
This year, our preschool is fortunate to be moving in the direction of becoming a more inclusive learning environment. I have typically always instructed a group of young children with special needs but this year, we are incorporating their general education peers into our program as well.
My Project
I would like to purchase several educational materials that promote STEM education in the preschool classroom. I specifically chose these learning materials because it provides my student direct access to their learning in an interactive manner. The magnifying glasses and science kits allows my students the ability to explore through cause and effect. The math materials encourages my students to understand number concepts, measurement and geometry through manipulation and group learning. I would also like to purchase some interactive software that will allow my students to learn in the large group through the use of an interactive "big" screen. I love teaching in large groups because it sets up opportunities for collaboration and discussion. With the introduction of the Common Core Standards, the focus on incorporating STEM education in curriculum is pervasive. My classroom needs to be equipped with STEM materials that provide my students with the right foundation.
I have always been a proponent for incorporating "new" techniques into my curriculum and instruction.
It helps me stay current with educational trends and ensure that my students have access to novel teaching methods and mediums. With your kind consideration of our project, you help prepare my students toward successful academic paths as they navigate Common Core learning.
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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. Cristobal-Rodriguez and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
