Some days I swear my kids have no idea they are learning, yet they are getting so much from “playing” with math tools and carrying out science experiments. They do not realize all the knowledge they have gained, until we wrap up at the end of the lesson.
We are 25 of the brightest, most inquisitive fourth graders in our school of over 600 students.
Our school is home to students in grades K4-5th grade.
We love to question and investigate things that puzzle us. We love our math workshop and science labs, and the tools we have to help us investigate all kinds of new things! Unfortunately, we don't always have all the tools we need to engage our minds due to budget cuts throughout our district.
My Project
I am implementing the workshop approach in my fourth grade classroom and love it! This approach encourages children to use inquiry and investigation to reach solutions to problems. In the classroom, I give the students a problem, offer various tools for them to use in their investigations, and then give them the opportunity to share and explain their solutions. I have used this method with much success, but having access to the tools needed for all concepts incorporated into SC state standards can sometimes be a challenge. The place value discs and money pouch sets will enable my kids to have real experiences with place value, just as the horseshoe magnets and iron fillings will give them opportunities to explore with magnetism. The liter cubes will not only allow for math, but also be used with our light unit to show a real spectrum. By obtaining these materials, it will allow students to have plenty of hands-on investigations and make real connections with math and science.
The math and science materials that I am requesting for my classroom will make an impact with my children for years to come.
Young children are curious by nature, and love to investigate, but if not continuously encouraged and engaged, they will lose that curiosity. I am certain these materials will offer plenty of "ah-ha moments" in the minds of my fourth graders! What is more exciting than seeing future mathematicians and scientists grow right in front of you?
More than half of 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. Shuckhart and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
