This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Students
My students need lab equipment so that they can truly experience science, not just read about it in a textbook. This project is to be considered for the Chevron Classroom Challenge.
My students are Seventh Grade Life Science students, and 8th grade MESA (science and math club) students in an under served California public school.
Many of my students deal with difficult situations at home and in their community. When they come to school, my students are looking for a structured environment where they can enjoy learning and have the same opportunities as other kids. In past years my students have loved science because they see it as a time when they get to ask questions about the world they live in, and find answers in a methodical way.
In addition, as with all middle school students, my students are learning how to find their place in the world. They are learning how to be people in society.
My Project
My students need lab equipment including microscopes, microscope slides and coverslips, and bacterial growing supplies to learn how to explore the world they live in. The microscopes and microscope materials will be used specifically in our cell unit and then supplementary in later units and during science fair. It is difficult for student to truly grasp the concept that they are made of "cells" unless they can see for themselves. These microscopes and slides will allow us to do labs where students can see for themselves that they are made of cells by creating slides with their own cheek cells on them. Imagine looking at your own cells under the microscope. They will also be used throughout the unit to study plant cells and cell parts. During science fair they will be used to study various topics that students choose to explore.
The agar and petri dishes will be used for students to measure bacterial growth in the experiments they design on their own during science fair.
These materials will allow my students to have the opportunity to learn lab skills and at the same time enrich their understanding of the curriculum.
These are the experiences they are expected to have before entering high school and will greatly increase their success in the high school science classroom. Of equal importance, my students will be more engaged in science and gain an understanding of science as something that exists outside of a textbook.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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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. Vanier and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
