The majority of students in my classroom are from grades 6-8. They come from a very rural area, but that doesn't curb their appetite for learning.
In fact, my students appreciate anything they are given, and in return, demonstrate a love of learning and respect for their learning environment.
That is part of what makes them so special!
At our school, we value STEM learning-especially in my Computer Science/Coding classroom. Students are immersed in several different programs where they learn basic coding, game design coding, problem solving, public speaking, and numerous other skills. By creating educational games, they apply their knowledge from other classes in their Computer Science/Coding class-creating a bridge from multiple curricula.
My students are already 100% hands-on in my classroom, but let's be honest: there's one or two students who finish early or who need that extra assignment. In Computer Science/Coding class, students can always make projects on the computer with their new skills or add new attributes to existing assignments when they finish their current assignments, but sometimes these students need to be rewarded, too. What better way to reward these STEM students than by challenging their coding skills with hands-on robots and tools?
My Project
These STEM tools, such as the Sphero Robot, Raspberry Pi, and the CUE Stem Coding Robot, will allow my students to extend their coding skills. Students will be able to manipulate and program these robots and handheld computers using the skills learned in my classroom. Students sometimes have difficulty relating skills learned in class to applications in the real world, and by giving my students the opportunity to use these robots, they'll be able to make that real-world connection!
By allowing my students to expand their coding skills by experimenting with these robots and coding tools, they're more likely to understand how the coding actually works.
They'll be utilizing the skills used during class to create a product that interests them! Furthermore, they'll share their learning experiences with friends and other teachers, will create more interest in my Computer Science/Coding classes! What better way to get all students interested in 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. Walters and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.