Observing and interacting with living science is the ultimate authentic learning experience. Every year my students eagerly await the arrival of our fertilized eggs and celebrate the countdown until the chicks hatch. For many it will an experience they will remember for a lifetime.
I teach a diverse group of enthusiastic second graders from six different classes.
I do science projects weekly with approximately 150 students. I try to make each experiment and lesson an exciting and memorable experience for my students. Nothing can compare in their minds however to the hatching of baby chicks.
I have ordered 10 fertilized eggs to be picked up on April 20th. I have all the required equipment except for a properly functioning incubator. After years of use my little incubator is no longer maintaining the steady temperature which is necessary for a successful hatch. Seldom will 100% of the eggs hatch, which is a part of the learning experience, however I'm afraid that the hatch rate with my existing incubator would be depressingly low.
We need help purchasing a new, reliable incubator. I have selected one which should last for many years. I look forward to the delighted expression on hundreds of children's faces as they experience the miracle of life.
My Project
We will use the incubator to hatch the fertilized chickens eggs which I have on order. We study life cycles prior to the arrival of the eggs. My students learn that a chicken's egg typically hatches in 21 days. We eagerly count down the days, opening a plastic egg which contains a simple picture of a developing embryo each day. The children have a lot knowledge about chickens and other life cycles by the time hatch day arrives.
Normally only our second grade students would come to observe the chicks after they hatch, however I have plans to "loan" out chicks to other classrooms this year. I have brooder boxes and heat lamps which can easily be transported to other classes. I hope that many more than the 150 second grade students may share in this experience.
I appreciate your consideration of my project.
I have already discovered that hatching chicks in the classroom is a life changing experience. It is something that most children will never forget. I like to believe that this experience may influence many students to become scientist.
I hope that you will recognize the importance of this project and help me obtain a properly functioning incubator for my students. Thank you.
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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. Kirkland and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
