My students need exciting, larger than life experiences and these physical models of the simple machines will motivate students to love scientific inquiry.
My classroom is a wild buzz of wonders, risk-taking, and hard work on a daily basis. I strive to provide hands on experiences to teach these little 8 year-olds about the complex nature of science. I want my students to be proud of the work they do to become inquisitive learners. Curiosity is key!
My students have to work hard in all aspects of their lives.
As a staff we work hard to differentiate and tailor instruction to the needs and interests of our students. At the same time, holding them to high academic expectations and fostering an environment that values success. Knowing that all of our students are each so different has it's challenges. We look for a wide variety of ways to reach each kid. These students thrive from hands on experiences that they may not otherwise ever get to see or do again. Our school strives to have resources available for all teachers in the building to use through our Science, Math and Technology Manipulative Library. Throughout the years, and many grant writing sessions, we have a collection of kits and supplies to support students in science. We use them in the classrooms (PreK-5-350 students), for after school activities and intervention groups.
My Project
These life size materials allow kids to fully interact with the simple machines. Currently, I have a mix of materials that take me two days to gather, collect and steal from my husband's garage. The kids could not be more impressed...oh wait, yes they could. The creative elements that the games provide will allow students to see how simple machines can be, but at the same time the difficulty and preciseness that engineering can bring. Our MN State Standards require students to be engaged and involved in the scientific procedure and what better way than to support their learning with hands on manipulative tools. Scientific inquiry would be met with full engagement of all the students in the class, no matter how soon recess is. In, fact it would make indoor recess in the winter a lot more fun! Students will discover and learn to get excited about science through authentic opportunities to discover, collaborate, observe and report.
Engaging students in their learning is so important.
To be able to provide exciting opportunities for learning that kids will remember for a lifetime is my mission. With help from donations I will be able to give my students and all of the students in our school authentic learning opportunities. Students will have experiences to reference to as they grow in their 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. Bonine and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
