This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
My students are an excited and eager group who are just beginning to learn about their capabilities. They are entering their third year of participating in the STEAM Lab. I have watched with great happiness as these Title I students have grown in their willingness to explore, take risks and expand their thinking. This is quite a change for these students who must overcome many socioeconomic hurdles. The students love working together on projects and get the chance to display the positive character traits we emphasize in my school.
It has been encouraging to see these students move from a "I can't, I don't know how" mentality to hearing statements like "Maybe we could try this", or "I have an idea".
The students are becoming more and more aware of their own potential. My goal is to expose them to as many opportunities as possible. Our school is a safe and welcoming place and this can be seen in the smiles and laughter of both the students and teachers!
My Project
The solar car materials requested will be used as part of the Junior Solar Sprint (JSS) program. The students will design, build and test solar cars using the Engineering design process. The students will learn how solar energy can be used to create mechanical energy. Aerodynamics, simple machines and engineering are all topics covered through the design of the cars.
Building the solar car will help to stimulate creative thinking in a hands-on project as well as present science concepts in a fun and exciting way.
Too often science concepts are taught in an abstract manner, this project will present those ideas in a hands-on interactive environment. The students will be able to test and improve on their ideas as their knowledge base grows. The JSS program incorporates many real-word skills such as communication, presentations and collaboration.
The competition of racing the cars also provides a level of excitement and motivation to the the learning process. These kinds of activities and challenges are not common for the students in my school and I see this project as a first step in creating a culture of creativity, perseverance, and achievement in my students. Lastly, I chose this particular kit because the materials (motor, panels, wheels) can be reused each year so that many students will have the opportunity to participate.
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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 Mr. Hoskie and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.