Did you ever have a teacher tell you to "sit still"? Well, research has shown that "sitting still" isn't always a good thing. My 28 fourth graders need to move in order to learn. I want to create a classroom environment that allows my students to move while helping them focus on their learning.
I have 14 boys and 14 girls in my classroom.
Each student is unique in his or her own way. At the same time, each student shows a strong need to move rather than sitting still at a desk. My classroom size is very small for the number of students I teach. I allow my students to stand when they feel the need to move, but this causes some space issues in our room. Because we are short on space, it is difficult for me to walk around the room to help students when their chairs are everywhere. Students try to get "comfy" in their chairs, and often times I trip over chair legs while going from one side of the room to the other.
My students also only get one recess a day, which means they have a lot of stored up energy they need to release! Our school works hard to ensure a positive learning environment for all our students. The use of the stability balls will help improve my classroom environment, and will help students use their stored energy while helping them focus on learning.
My Project
The stability balls will replace our existing student chairs. Students will be able to sit on the stability balls while working at their desks. When students sit on the balls, they will channel their natural need to move in a positive way that will allow them to be more productive in the classroom.
Research has shown that when students use stability balls, they are better able to focus on tasks that require them to work at their desks.
Research also suggests student test scores will improve as well as their fine and gross motor skills. There are less behavior problems because students are releasing energy in a safe and positive way. Students with special needs will be better able to focus. I am positive that our classroom will become a more stable environment conducive to 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. Booth and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
