Earl Nightingale once wrote, "Your problem is to bridge the gap which exists between where you are now and the goal you intend to reach."
As a teacher, I want to do that for each of my students.
I want to provide them with learning experiences that enable them to achieve even the loftiest of goals.
Our school, which is located in Northern Appalachia, was founded when "Coal was King." As the steel and coal industries vanished, so did many of the residents. Those who remain hold onto strong ethnic and family ties. Presently, our school serves a residential population of approximately 4,100 in a 68-square mile radius. The area is economically challenged. Recent state budget cuts have taken their toll, as well.
In spite of these challenges, our 3rd-6th grade science program is flourishing. During the 2017-2018 school year, 100% of our 4th grade students scored proficient or advanced on state testing. This is a source of pride within the school and in the community. As a teacher, I would love to see our science program continue to grow.
My Project
Sphero Robots will give my students many practical applications in math, physical science and engineering--all while learning about robotics, coding, and technology.
Your generous support will fund a robotic Winter Olympics--a multi-event competition implementing STEM skills.
Students will program their Sphero robots to compete in a series of challenges, including a "Friction Freestyle." For this activity, students will race Sphero Robots on different surfaces, carefully calculating speeds. These surfaces will include carpet, tile, grass, snow, and the gym floor. A second event will be the "Slippery Slalom." During this event, students will be challenged to invent a contraption for Sphero that will haul a cup of water. Students will program the robots to manipulate through an obstacle course. The robot that arrives at the finish line with the most water will be pronounced the winner. Other activities in the SpherOlympics include teams working in pairs to design a "Synchronized Coding" dance routine, and "Coded Curling"--an event in which students will program their robots to push a stone to a target. While practicing these events, students will be learning about friction, angles, speed, acceleration, engineering, and forces.
These materials for this project will benefit over 120 students this year in grades 3-6. They are not consumable and will last for many years to come.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Nalisnik and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
